Welcome to the NFL, Michael Penix Jr.
The rookie quarterback was named the Atlanta Falcons' starting lineup earlier this week after Kirk Cousins' struggles became unbearable for the team. Penix made his first start against the New York Giants and despite some rookie trouble, he achieved the win.
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Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. runs the ball against the New York Giants on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
Penix completed 18 of 27 for 207 passing yards and one interception, but was not sacked.
Atlanta defeated New York 34-7.
The Falcons went on an eight-play, 36-yard drive in the second quarter before converting to a field goal for the victory. Falcons safety Jesse Bates III returned a Drew Lock interception for a touchdown to take the lead. Atlanta never looked back from there.
Penix's 19-yard pass to Darnell Mooney helped set up Bejan Robinson's first of two rushing touchdowns. The Falcons entered the locker room leading 17-7.
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Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. leaves the field after a game against the New York Giants on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
Robinson scored again in the third quarter. He had 94 rushing yards on 22 carries and two touchdowns. Mooney led the way with 82 yards on five catches.
It was the Falcons' second straight win. They defeated the Las Vegas Raiders last week, who had lost four straight. The Falcons are 8-7 this season.
It's been a slow season for the Giants.
Lock was 22-of-39 for 210 passing yards, one touchdown pass, and two interceptions. However, the lethargic offense produced only one drive that resulted in points in 11 turns.
The defense didn't help matters either. The Falcons had nine drives and 22 first downs. New York had just 14 first downs on 11 drives.
Falcons cornerback Mike Hughes breaks up a pass to New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabors on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
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It was a good win for a rookie quarterback who needs to quickly establish his confidence if the Falcons are to win the NFC South and make the playoffs this season.
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