The Atlanta Falcons made a statement on Sunday, defeating the New York Giants 34-7 to rise above .500 and secure an 8-7 record for the season. The win was thanks in part to rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who led the team to victory in his first career start.
Penix completed 18 of his 27 passes for 202 yards, showing promise as a starting QB despite some minor mistakes. A key play came when Falcons safety Jessie Bates III intercepted a pass meant for Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson, flipping the momentum of the game and setting up Atlanta’s 10-7 lead.
The Falcons defense also played a crucial role in the win, with two pick-sixes returned for touchdowns by safety Jessie Bates III and outside linebacker Matthew Judon. The team’s dominant run game, led by Bijan Robinson, also chipped in with a pair of touchdowns, propelling Atlanta to a 17-7 halftime lead.
The win keeps the Falcons in playoff contention, as they hold the tiebreaker over their NFC South rivals if Tampa Bay wins this week. With Penix Jr. leading the way, Atlanta looks poised for a successful postseason run.
Source: https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/new-york-giants-game-breakdown-week-16