Penix, the former Washington Huskies standout, was named the Falcons starter in Week 16, replacing veteran Kirk Cousins, who struggled for more than a month. Penix was picked No.

After completely bombing five starts in a row, Cousins was benched by the Falcons last week in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. out of Washington. Even though his numbers were no

Falcons rookie Michael Penix Jr. has patiently waited for his opportunity while the other quarterbacks in this year’s draft class have received all the headlines this season.

The Michael Penix Jr. era has arrived in Atlanta. The Falcons rookie quarterback made his first start on Sunday, leading Atlanta to a dominant 34-7 win

The Atlanta Falcons (7-7) and its new starting quarterback face the New York Giants (2-12) Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

The Atlanta Falcons reclaimed the NFC South lead this weekend, defeating the New York Giants by a score of 34-7. Michael Penix Jr. impressed in his first real NFL action, becoming just the third Falcons rookie quarterback ever to win his first start.

Rookie Michael Penix Jr. made his first NFL start in place of Kirk Cousins, and it's fair to wonder if Cousins will play another meaningful snap for Atlanta.

WATCH: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. throws first career TD to Kyle Pitts on 4th and goal to tie the game against the Commanders