As Michael Penix Jr. and the Falcons make a playoff push, the rookie QB will be heavily relied upon now that he's the starter.

The Falcons surprisingly selected Penix with the eighth overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft. The pick wasn't a surprise because of Penix's résumé so much as the team's $180 million signing of veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins earlier in the offseason. After a rough 14 games to begin his Falcons career, Atlanta benched Cousins for Penix.

The Michael Penix Jr. era started ahead of schedule for the Atlanta Falcons. The 24-year-old rookie debuts against the hapless 2-12 New York Giants.

Atlanta Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. spoke on winning his NFL Debut against the New York Giants, saying "[My heart] is beating big right now."

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

It took until Week 16 for the Atlanta Falcons to finally feel comfortable starting rookie quarterback Michael Penix. Their patience paid off, as Penix led the Falcons to a 34-7 victory over the New York Giants in his debut.

Turnover differential: Giants minus-8; Falcons minus-7.

Michael Penix Jr. will make his first NFL start for the Falcons who are favored by more than a touchdown over the flailing, ailing Giants.

Replacing Kirk Cousins, Penix enjoyed the benefits of a strong run game and a swarming defense in a victory over the New York Giants.

Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will make his third start as the Atlanta Falcons try to protect their playoff hopes against the Carolina Panthers