Michael Penix Plays Amazing in Debut

    Written by: Alex Gonzalez •

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    Michael Penix Plays Amazing in Debut

    It is uncommon for a rookie quarterback to make his first start late in December when the team is still fighting for a playoff spot. It is also more uncommon for the previous quarterback to be healthy and get replaced, but that is exactly what has happened in Atlanta.

    Michael Penix Jr., 24, debuted yesterday against the New York Giants and completely dominated them 34-7.

    Penix played solidly, going 18-27 for 202 passing yards and one interception, which was not his fault. Late in the second quarter, Penix threw a near-perfect pass to former first-round pick Kyle Pitts, lost control of the football, and virtually scooped the ball right into the defender's hands. Other than that mistake, Penix was flawless.

    The Falcons had 22 first downs, went 8-14 on third down efficiency, and were 2-4 in the red zone. These were all categories in which the team had struggled previously with former quarterback Kirk Cousins.

    Cousins, who signed a four-year $180 million contract in the offseason, led the team to a 6-3 record to start the season before going on a 1-4 skid where he threw nine interceptions and only one touchdown. This sent the team from a virtual playoff lock in the NFC South to now fighting for their playoff lives with just three weeks left. Cousins leads the NFL with 16 interceptions and is tied for the league lead in fumbles with Baker Mayfield, with both players having 12 fumbles.

    Cousins continued to struggle despite getting the win last week, making the Falcons coaching staff question his ability to start and lead the team. On Tuesday, head coach Raheem Morris decided to go with rookie Michael Penix.

    The Falcons are now 8-7 and currently winning the NFC South with two games left to go. With the Buccaneers falling to the Cowboys last night, the Falcons now control their own destiny to the playoffs. If the Falcons win their next two games, they will make the playoffs, but if they lose one of the next two, they will need the Buccaneers to drop another game to make the playoffs.

    Penix played great this week, but they will have a much more significant challenge as they face the 10-5 Commanders on Sunday Night Football. It's a big game that could have significant playoff implications for the Falcons. It will also be another rookie quarterback duel with No. 8 pick Michael Penix facing off against No. 2 pick Jayden Daniels.

    Can Penix lead the Falcons to the playoffs for the first time since 2018, or will the Falcons falter with two games to go? Only time will tell.

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