Michael Penix Jr.'s Stats tonight: How did Falcons rookie QB fare against Commanders in Week 17?

Michael Penix Jr. was the most shocking move of the 2024 NFL Draft. The Atlanta Falcons had already given Kirk Cousing a monstrous four-year, $180-million contract in free agency; and adding another quarterback was seen as a reach at the time.

But as the season nears its end, the fronf office could have not looked more prescient. After failing to establish dominance over the NFC South, Cousins was benched for the rookie, who made his debut against the New York Giants and was mediocre, throwing an interception but empowering Bijan Robinson and the defense, who were responsible for all the team's touchdowns.

On Sunday night, Penix faced off against the Wasington Commanders with one goal: tie the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at 9-7 and strenghthen their chances of clinching the division. Did he do it, and how did he fare?

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Michael Penix Jr. stats tonight

These are Michael Penix Jr.'s numbers for tonight's game:

• Passes attempted: 35
• Completions: 19
• Passing yards: 223
• Passing touchdowns: 1
• Interceptions: 1
• Passer rating: 71.5
• Carries: 2
• Rushing yards: 3

This may have been his best game yet. He made the throws when they were needed most, and most importantly he scored a touchdown when it was needed the most.

With Penix Jr.'s help, Drake London hit at least 100 yards for just the second time this season, putting himself just shy of a thousand - which he is expected to accomplish next week, barring a shutdown performance by the opposing defense. Kyle Pitts was also solid, catching four passes for 44 yards and a score; but Darnell Mooney all but disappeared with just two for 37.

The only thing that prevented the team from winning was Raheem Morris’ fateful decision to kick the extra point then try two. Had that succeeded, then the Commanders would have had the pressure to retake the lead with just over three minutes left. Instead, the Commanders could freely punt the ball and watch as Riley Patterson cracked under pressure and missed the game-winner in regulation.

With that all said, there is one game remaining for Penix - and it may be his most important yet. It is the Falcons hosting the lowly Carolina Panthers. The NFC South is on the line.

There is only one scenario that matters: win, while the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lose to the New Orleans Saints. No other combination of outcomes matters. If he pulls it off, he may establish an early reputation as the new savior of the city.