Cincinnati Football: 3 takeaways from AAC showdown win at Houston

3. Cincinnati success on offense depends on Desmond Ridder

First and foremost, the Cincinnati offense clearly runs around quarterback Desmond Ridder. Carving up the Cougars secondary and choosing his spots wisely to tuck and run with the ball, Ridder was a critical reason why the Bearcats are leaving Texas with their fifth win of the season.

Entering the contest, Ridder was hardly the most impressive quarterback in the country from a statistical standpoint. Ranked just 53rd in passing efficiency and 76th in yards per game through the air, Ridder’s contribution isn’t marked so much by gaudy numbers as it is cool execution and a steadying influence that makes everyone else around him perform better as a result.

Ridder threw for 263 yards and three touchdowns on 14-of-24 passing. Only one interception blemished what was otherwise a solid, well-executed performance by the sophomore quarterback. Along the way, Ridder added 50 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground as he carried the ball 11 times.

As long as Ridder remains healthy, Cincinnati will continue to be one of the favorites to walk away with the American Athletic Conference crown this season. Even when he doesn’t post huge numbers against an opponent, his presence still makes a huge difference for a Bearcats team on a mission in 2019.