Atlanta Falcons (8-7) – New York Giants (2-13): 34-7
The Falcons win without trembling against the Giants. After an eventful week, Raheem Morris' players still remain in the race for the playoffs.
For his first as a starter in the NFL, Michael Penix Jr. was not worried. Shy at first, he was able to let go of his arm at times, but he was not helped by his receivers. On the other hand, it is the ground game which has helped him a lot with a Bijan Robinson of great evenings, who exceeds 1500 cumulative yards after the line of scrimmage, and reached 10 touchdowns in the race this season.
The defense also had its part in the victory, with 2 pick sixand constant pressure on Drew Lock and the offensive line of the New York franchise. The only satisfaction on the Giants side is seeing Malik Nabers break the record for the number of receptions for a franchise rookie, surpassing Odell Beckham Jr and Saquon Barkley. This is the Giants' 10th consecutive defeat, again a record that coach Brian Daboll would have done without.
Curiosity and clumsiness
For his first offensive series as a starting quarterback in the NFL, Michael Penix Jr. (18/27, 202 yards, INT) begins with a first complete pass to Drake London (5 REC, 59 yards). But, this series does not go to the end. Both teams struggled in the first quarter, but everything would settle down in the second.
On the first play of this quarter, Drew Lock found Tyrone Tracy Jr. (7 races, 4 REC, 69 yards, TD) for a spectacular touchdown. We therefore think that the Giants quarterback is launched. But, we understand after a few actions why Drew Lock is not a starting quarterback in the NFL. The former Seahawks and Broncos does not see Jesse Bates appearing in front of Wandale Robinson to allow the Falcons to go ahead.
The momentum changes, and the Falcons will drive the point home with Bijan Robinson (22 races, 94 yards, 2 TDs) in the race, who resists contact. But, the Atlanta franchise wants a match with suspense. Thus, after a ball recovered on the opposing 30 yards, Kyle Pitts is responsible for releasing the ball for cornerback CorDale Flott. Unfortunately, this leads to Michael Penix Jr.'s 1st interception of his NFL career.
Michael Penix Jr. and the Falcons in control
The second period begins with an offensive series from the Giants which will end with a touchdown… from the Falcons. After Jessie Bates, it is now Matthew Judon who takes advantage of the ball deflected by Harrison to go for the touchdown.
The Falcons make the game easy. Michael Penix Jr. is not even far from throwing his first career touchdown. Unfortunately, Drake London does not secure reception. It is therefore Bijan Robinson who goes with his double to sink Brian Daboll's men.
On the other hand, the Giants haven't been there for a while. Each successful attack is weighed down by an offensive penalty. This time, Malik Nabers (7 REC, 68 yards) will not work miracles.
At least the first place in the next Draft is getting closer. But, with two games remaining, it is really time for the 2024 season to end in the Big Apple.
