Michael Penix Jr. made the most of his first NFL start, leading the Atlanta Falcons to a 34-7 victory. While the rookie quarterback didn’t have jaw-dropping stats (18 completions, 202 yards, one interception), he showed poise from the pocket that could help propel the Falcons to more success.
Penix has an interception on record, but it’s more because tight end Kyle Pitts dropped the ball. The former Washington standout may have failed to throw a touchdown pass, but he did enough to lead Atlanta to their eighth victory in 15 games.
A look at Michael Penix Jr.’s stats in his first start. pic.twitter.com/1QN76LlhZB
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) December 22, 2024
More importantly, the Falcons led the NFC South after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost to the Dallas Cowboys. Penix's performance was enough to retain the starting role until the Falcons ended their season.
If Penix improves from this experience, the criticism of Atlanta's selection of a quarterback in the first round will be silenced. Likewise, the Falcons could be a force to reckon with in a winnable division.
-Lance Fernandez