Michael Penix Jr.’s Return Has Revamped the Falcons’ Offense

The National Football League is a week-to-week league. Michael Penix Jr. and the Atlanta Falcons are living proof.

Just three weeks ago, the Falcons suffered a 34-3 blowout loss in their home opener to the Carolina Panthers, falling to 0-2. As Penix recovered from his ACL tear last season, an oblique injury to Tua Tagovailoa forced third-string quarterback Cooper Rush into the starting role.

Atlanta’s offense struggled. Through the first two weeks, Drake London and Kyle Pitts combined for seven catches, while Bijan Robinson totaled 155 rushing yards. Moreover, the offensive line allowed a 17.4% pressure rate.

Atlanta ranked last in the NFL in scoring offense (8.0 points per game) and failed to reach the red zone on a single offensive possession.

However, once Penix was named the starting quarterback for the team’s Week 3 matchup with the Green Bay Packers, the Falcons responded with consecutive dominant victories, defeating Green Bay 35-14 and the New Orleans Saints 45-24.

Against the Packers, Penix shook off an opening-drive interception, completing 17 of his final 20 passes, including a touchdown to Austin Hooper.

This past Monday night at New Orleans, he completed 15 of 20 attempts for 223 yards, including a 31-yard fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Jahan Dotson.

Penix’s ability to navigate the pocket has contributed to the offensive line allowing just a 6.5% pressure rate over the last two weeks. Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees also deserves credit for developing a game plan that puts Penix in a position to succeed.

Nobody has benefited more from Penix’s return than London. Over the last two weeks, he has recorded 14 receptions for 290 receiving yards, the second-most in the NFL behind Dallas Cowboys receiver, CeeDee Lamb.

Likewise, Atlanta’s potent rushing attack has taken a leap.

With defenses having to respect Penix’s ability to push the ball downfield, they may be less willing to bring additional defenders into the box, creating space for the Robinson duo.

After rushing for 194 yards and two touchdowns against Green Bay, Bijan Robinson rushed for another 145 yards and two touchdowns against the Saints, including a 59-yard touchdown on his first carry.

Likewise, Brian Robinson Jr. accounted for 62 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 14 carries.

It was the first time since 2010 that the Falcons totaled 200 rushing yards in back-to-back games. It was also the first time since 2008 that they scored five rushing touchdowns in a game.

Since Week 3, Atlanta has made 10 red-zone appearances, scoring touchdowns on eight of them. The 80% touchdown rate ranks third in the NFL.

“I feel great. It’s awesome to be able to see the team all buying in,” Penix stated.

As the Falcons host the Baltimore Ravens this Sunday night, Penix and the offense will look to sustain momentum.

While it’s unlikely two-time league MVP Lamar Jackson plays, Baltimore’s defense features playmakers at all three levels, including DT Nnamdi (Justin) Madubuike, safety and Marist School alum Kyle Hamilton, CB Nate Wiggins and LB Roquan Smith, an Atlanta native and Westlake High School alum.

“They got some ball players,” Penix mentioned. “Just talking defensively…I feel like they have guys everywhere.”

With the Carolina Panthers on a bye this week, the Falcons can secure first place in the division with a win over the Ravens.