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Miami Gardens, Florida – Michael Penix Jr. made his debut for the Atlanta Falcons and had a few moments that validated him being the No. 8 overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Penix played into the beginning of the second quarter. He finished 9-16 for 104 yards and no touchdowns. The former Washington Huskies quarterback displayed his accuracy when he connected with wide receiver Chris Blair for a 41-yard deep pass down the sideline.
Head coach Raheem Morris was pleased to see him get some live reps in a game and felt good about his play.
“I felt really good about Michael. He was able to go through some of those progressions,” stated Morris.
Then there were times where he missed throws, including a wide open John FitzPatrick along the sideline on a pass that soared over him.
“I don’t think Michael is the kind of guy that loses his confidence,” said Morris. “He plays with a lot of confidence and a lot of poise. He’s pretty even killed, even demeanor. I don’t think he rides the emotional roller coster at all.”
Penix also took his first hit right in the chest while attempting a deep pass along the sideline. It was the first big hit he’s encountered since he’s started minicamp and it seemed like he enjoyed.
“I was saying that before the game like I just want to get hit one time cause quarterbacks, we don’t get hit until game-time,” said Penix. “It’s good to be able to get hit and get back up and continue to keep playing.
After an interception by cornerback Kevin King, running back Carlos Washington scored on a one-yard touchdown run on fourth down. Penix went 2-4 for 20 yards on that drive.
The message he’s reiterated throughout training camp is ‘This is just football’, and once again, he took that same approach and that’s how he was able to remain so calm.
“I was ready. I been ready to play for the longest. It’s just football to me,” stated Penix.
After his first live game action, Penix’s demeanor along with his ability and play should get Falcons fans excited for the near future.
