How the Falcons lost to Tampa Bay left scars within the fanbase. Regardless of the nasty conditions, it was a winnable game against an opponent without any semblance of a passing game. They were manhandled in the trenches. They couldn’t convert on third down, no matter the distance. Tackling became a persistent problem. For all those issues, nothing was more concerning than Michael Penix Jr.’s performance.
He was making self-inflicted errors you don’t see from a starting-caliber quarterback. Although
Penix Jr. can throw with anticipation well at times, it was detrimental against Todd Bowles’ defense. From failing to identify defenders dropping into coverage to throwing into passing windows that didn’t exist, his performance was alarming in how rudimentary his mistakes were. That has left fans very concerned about his ability to be a franchise quarterback.
It’s worrying times for the Falcons. They play against two top contenders before the bye week. Expecting Penix Jr. to go throw for throw with Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes would be unfair. He needs to play significantly better to show the Falcons can compete with top offenses. That will go a long way toward rebuilding the team’s confidence after a catastrophic display in Tampa Bay.
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