Overview
- The Falcons have scored 80 points in the two games since Michael Penix Jr. resumed the starting job, including a 45-24 Monday night win at New Orleans and a 35-14 win at Green Bay.
- Bijan Robinson and Brian Robinson Jr. combined for 207 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns in the Saints game, and Atlanta averaged 5.9 yards per carry as the offensive line opened holes and protected the quarterback.
- Advanced metrics show a clear shift with Penix: he ranks near the top in expected points added per dropback, has the league’s fastest average time to throw, and has produced far better completion rates on throws more than 10 yards downfield.
- The Falcons have used more play-action and intermediate-to-deep throws with Penix, which has helped the run game, but analysts warn the surge may reflect a small sample and softer recent defenses.
- Injury and durability concerns temper the breakout: Za’Darius Smith left with a concussion, left tackle Jake Matthews exited with a groin injury, and Penix is still in the early post-ACL phase that has raised long-term questions.