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Michael Penix Jr. Leads Falcons to 34-7 Win Over Giants, Boosting Playoff Hopes

Dec 22, 2024, 07:26 PM

Michael Penix Jr. made his first NFL start for the Atlanta Falcons, leading them to a decisive 34-7 victory over the New York Giants at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The rookie quarterback completed 18 of 27 passes for 202 yards, though he threw one interception that was not his fault due to a bobble by tight end Kyle Pitts. His passer rating was 73.4. The Falcons' defense played a crucial role, contributing two pick-sixes, one by safety Jessie Bates III and another by outside linebacker Matthew Judon. Running back Bijan Robinson added to the offensive effort with 94 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries, while receivers Darnell Mooney and Drake London caught passes for 82 and 59 yards respectively. The win improved the Falcons' record to 8-7, while the Giants fell to 2-13, keeping Atlanta's playoff hopes alive.