Michael Penix Jr picks up first career victory as starter as Falcons trounce Giants

NFL insider Jordan Schultz joins Colin Cowherd to reveal the fascinating story behind Michael Penix Jr.'s draft selection by the Atlanta Falcons. Schultz explains why the Falcons view Penix Jr. as their future franchise quarterback and what makes ...

Welcome to the NFL, Michael Penix Jr.

The rookie quarterback was thrust into the Atlanta Falcons’ starting role earlier this week as Kirk Cousins’ struggles became too much for the team to bear. Penix got his first start against the New York Giants and picked up a win even as he battled through some rookie troubles.

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Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. runs the ball against the New York Giants in Atlanta, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Penix was 18-of-27 with 207 passing yards and one interception, but he wasn’t sacked. 

Atlanta defeated New York, 34-7.

The Falcons got on the board with a field goal following an eight-play, 36-yard drive in the second quarter. Falcons safety Jessie Bates III returned a Drew Lock interception for a touchdown to take the lead. Atlanta didn’t look back from there.

Penix’s 19-yard pass to Darnell Mooney helped setup Bijan Robinson for the first of his two rushing touchdowns. The Falcons took a 17-7 lead into the locker room.

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Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. walk off the field after the New York Giants game in Atlanta, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Robinson scored again in the third quarter. He finished with 94 rushing yards on 22 carries and two touchdowns. Mooney led the way with five catches for 82 yards.

It was the Falcons’ second straight win. They defeated