Michael Penix Jr. overcame a slow start in the best way possible. After the Atlanta Falcons’ rookie quarterback threw an interception on the opening drive of Sunday Night Football, he rebounded in the biggest moment.
As defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake’s defense struggled to get off the field in the second half, the Washington Commanders took a 24-17 lead before Penix took the field with 4:25 to play and a chance to tie the game. The drive got off to a rocky start, but the former Washington star was able to keep it alive with a 31-yard strike to Drake London on fourth and 11.
Then, after the Falcons were able to get the ball into the red zone, offensive coordinator Zac Robinson called a wildcat run for running back Bijan Robinson, but the snap went over his head, forcing Atlanta into a second-and-goal situation from the 26-yard line.
After Penix found London on second down for 13 yards and missed him in the end zone on third down, he trusted tight end Kyle Pitts on fourth-and-goal from the 13-yard line after the former No. 4 overall pick caused his first career interception in a win over the New York Giants last Sunday.
Penix threw a perfect ball, reminiscent of his days on Montlake, splitting two defenders and putting it in a spot where only Pitts could get it. The 13-yard score capped off a 12-play, 68-yard drive and kept the game and Atlanta’s playoff hopes alive with 1:19 to play.