Although the box score doesn’t show it and the most notable play from the game was an ugly drop from tight end Kyle Pitts that turned into his first career interception, Michael Penix Jr. looked like the future of the Atlanta Falcons franchise in a 34-7 victory over the New York Giants on Sunday.
In his first career start, the No. 8 overall pick in April’s draft completed 18 of his 27 passes for 202 yards, no touchdowns, and the interception that wasn’t his fault. The former Husky signal caller also infused some life into the Falcons’ lackluster offense by doing what he does best, pushing the ball downfield.
He completed six passes for more than 15 yards and was aided in the win by a big day from running back Bijan Robinson, who finished with 103 total yards and 2 touchdowns, and the Falcons’ defense, which also scored twice.
Penix, who admitted to feeling some jitters during warmups, looked like the poised player that Washington fans got to know once the game kicked off.
“You do feel [nervous], but as soon as you hit the field it goes away,” he told the media after the game. “This is the game I’ve been playing since I was 5 years old. Obviously, it’s different at a higher level, but it’s the same game. I’ve just got to go out and execute.”
After benching veteran Kirk Cousins just five days earlier, head coach Raheem Morris was very pleased with how Penix’s first start played out.
“The plan came a little bit sooner, but the kid was ready, and we had a lot of time to develop him,” he said. “The kid did a great job himself with developing himself and getting ready for that moment where it wasn’t too big.”
Penix’s second start will be a much tougher test, as he’ll face the No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels, who beat him out for the Heisman Trophy in 2023, and the Washington Commanders under a national spotlight on Sunday Night Football.
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