Michael Penix Jr.'s stats today: How did the Falcons rookie QB fare against Giants in Week 16?
Michael Penix Jr. made his NFL starting debut on Sunday against the New York Giants. The rookie quarterback was named starter after Kirk Cousins scored only one touchdown in the last five games, which the Falcons lost, and tasked to lead the squad to the promised land.
Penix wasn't spectacular in the first half of the game, only attempting 14 passes while other players and units found the end zone for Atlanta.
Penix entered the NFL surrounded by doubts, as many believed he wasn't ready to make an impact on the league. The Falcons took a chance with him and added, originally to learn from Cousins, but Raheem Morris' plans changed mid-season.
The Falcons entered halftime with 17 points in their favor, but Penix had little to do with that.
Michael Penix Jr.'s stats against Giants
The numbers of Penix's debut game can be found below.
- Pass attempts: 27
- Pass completions: 18
- Passing yards: 202
- TDs: 0
- INTs: 1
- Sacks: 0-0
- QB Rating: 73.4
For the rest of the game, Michael Penix Jr. only attempted 11 more passes, completing nine more. He surpassed the 200-yard threshold, but besides that, he wasn't as impactful in this game as some of his teammates. That said, he looked solid out there and if he keeps his composure and gets more confident on the field, he could find some rhythm before a potential playoff run.
The Atlanta Falcons dominated the New York Giants from start to finish despite a missed field goal in the game-opening drive. Drew Lock was intercepted twice, even getting one of his passes all the way back to the end zone. Besides the defense, Bijan Robinson played a great game today, clocking in 22 rushing attempts for 94 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. He also caught two passes for nine receiving yards.
Penix is trying to become his own man and get settled into this offense, but this was a good presentation. The next two weeks should be more challenging for him and should give fans a better look at what he brings to the table.