Baker Mayfield offers advice to Michael Penix Jr after being named Falcons starter

Baker Mayfield shared a piece of advice to Michael Penix Jr in the wake of his announcement as the Atlanta Falcons' starting quarterback for Week 16. Atlanta waited long enough to see if its star free-agency signing Kirk Cousins could turn his season around, but after another underwhelming performance against the Las Vegas Raiders, Raheem Morris is sending Penix to the field on Sunday.

Mayfield had some words for the rookie quarterback ahead of the Falcons' duel against the New York Giants. The veteran quarterback used himself as an example of learning behind veterans while waiting for his chance, but also joked about Penix feeling too comfortable to dethrone his Buccaneers.

"It's always a tough deal," Mayfield said. "From experience, I learned a lot behind Tyrod Taylor and Drew Stanton. Just try to take in as much information as possible, that's the most important part. You have to support each other in that room. That's what it's all about.

"So, different look this late in the year for him to be thrown to it. It's a lot on the line for him. So, just take it all in, trust yourself. ... Don't trust yourself too much."

After a 27-21 win over the Dallas Cowboys on Nov. 3, the Atlanta Falcons have seemingly forgotten how to win a football game. They have lost five consecutive duels, with Kirk Cousins only throwing one touchdown pass (against the Raiders) and nine interceptions.

Baker Mayfield, Michael Penix Jr. will try to lead their teams to the playoffs in the next three weeks

With three games left in the 2024 NFL season, Baker Mayfield's Buccaneers still lead the NFC South division with an 8-6 record. The Falcons are right behind them at 7-7.

The Falcons started last month with a 7-2 record as one of the best teams in the NFC. Now, they could be out of the playoffs. The situation isn't ideal, but this is a good time for Penix to show what he can bring to the table.

The Bucs and Falcons won't clash again for the rest of the season after Atlanta won the regular-season series, which explains why Baker Mayfield wants Michael Penix Jr. not to feel too comfortable.

This duel is one of the most entertaining in the NFL this season, and while they can't challenge for the top spot in the conference standings, there is still a lot at stake for both teams.