5 college passers the Steelers should keep tabs on in 2021
By Brendan Howe
Desmond Ridder
Desmond Ridder fits a familiar mold.
A game-breaking signal-caller from a school in Ohio that doesn’t adorn its helmets with Buckeye stickers, he’s steered his program into the public eye. He’s also been both his league’s most sensational newcomer and offensive standout.
Since taking over three years ago for the University of Cincinnati—a rival of Ben Roethlisberger’s Miami (Ohio), Ridder has put himself in the conversation as the most noteworthy passer in the school’s history.
Heading into the upcoming calendar, he’s prevailed in over 88% of his career starts, a winning percentage that’s tops among active FBS quarterbacks. He ranks second in passing in the Bearcats’ history, having thrown for 6,905 yards and 57 touchdowns.
In recent times, Steelers fans have seen Roethlisberger be slower to move than the cargo ship that plugged the Suez Canal this past spring. That wouldn’t be the case with Ridder, who’s wheeled for 1,825 yards out of Cincy’s backfield.
Looking to add to a resumé that includes an AAC crown, he’ll have the chance to prove himself against non-conference foes in Notre Dame and Indiana this fall.
It’s been more than a half-century since Cincinnati boasted a first-round talent at quarterback. Right now, Ridder is on track to change that.