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23 December 2024

Falcons Crush Giants 34-7, Penix Debuts Strongly

Atlanta's defense shines with two pick-sixes, extending New York's losing streak to ten games.

ATLANTA — Michael Penix Jr. won his debut as Atlanta's starting quarterback, thanks largely to a defense capable of creating significant turnovers, as the Falcons defeated the New York Giants 34-7 on Sunday, marking the Giants’ franchise-record 10th straight loss.

Penix, who was the No. 8 overall pick in this year's draft, stepped up after the Falcons decided to bench Kirk Cousins—who previously signed a hefty four-year, $180 million contract. The rookie’s performance was highlighted by his 18 completions out of 27 attempts for 202 yards, overcoming some early pressure including three dropped passes.

The Falcons' defense played a pivotal role, contributing two pick-six touchdowns, marking only the second occasion in franchise history where two interceptions were returned for scores. Linebacker Jessie Bates opened the scoring for Atlanta with his 55-yard interception return after the Giants had taken the lead 7-3 early in the second quarter. After the Falcons secured their lead, Matthew Judon sealed the game with another interception return, taking advantage of Drew Lock's errant throw, which was deflected off Zach Harrison's hands and went straight to Judon for a 27-yard score.

“With the Giants up 7-3, Lock's pass for Wan'Dale Robinson was easily swiped by Bates, who ran untouched the other way for the touchdown,” reported AP. Judon's involvement effectively cemented the Falcons' dominance, as they had taken their lead to 24-7 right at the beginning of the second half.

Lock struggled throughout the game, becoming the first Giants quarterback since Eli Manning to throw multiple pick-sixes. The Giants had initially put points on the board with Lock's 2-yard TD pass to Tyrone Tracy, who made an impressive one-handed catch. Post this score, the Giants could not find any momentum, finishing with just one touchdown against the opportunistic Falcons defense.

Meanwhile, Penix showcased his ability to manage the game effectively under pressure. Atlanta’s rushing game also made its mark with Bijan Robinson recording two scoring runs of 2 and 4 yards respectively and totaling 94 yards on 22 attempts. Notably, Robinson tallied his 10th rushing touchdown of the season, making him the first Falcons running back to reach double digits since Devonta Freeman did so during the 2016 Super Bowl season.

With the win, the Falcons improved to 8-7, strengthening their position as they chase the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the NFC South title. They entered the week just one game behind the Buccaneers, who were set to play against Dallas later on Sunday night.

“If we just focus on ourselves and keep doing what we've been doing, good things will happen,” said Penix following the game, as reported by AP.

On the injury front, the Giants saw inside linebacker Micah McFadden leave the game due to a neck injury, and safety Jason Pinnock had to exit with an eye issue. Tommy DeVito served as Lock's backup after being cleared from concussion protocol.

For Atlanta, cornerback Antonio Hamilton did not return after suffering a quad injury, and wide receiver Drake London also had to leave the field during the second half due to hamstring issues. Despite the couple of injury concerns, Atlanta's focus is now on their next challenge, as they prepare to face the Washington Commanders next Sunday—a game ripe with playoff stakes for both teams.

The Giants, now sitting at 2-13, will host the Indianapolis Colts next week before wrapping up their season against Philadelphia on January 5. If New York were to lose both of these remaining games, it would signify one of the worst seasons on record, matching their dismal 2-12 finish back in 1974.

With the playoff picture beginning to load up, the Falcons have positioned themselves as serious contenders with the confidence of their newfound quarterback and the multi-dimensional threat posed by their defense.

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