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The Atlanta Falcons have decided to bench Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. after a disappointing season from Cousins, who has thrown 18 touchdowns but also 16 interceptions. With the Falcons struggling at 7-7 and facing a tough NFC South, the team is looking for a spark to salvage their playoff hopes. The decision to start Penix, who was drafted 8th overall, reflects a shift from a long-term strategy to an urgent need for immediate improvement.
- Kirk Cousins has been benched due to poor performance, with a QBR of 52.7 ranking him 22nd in the league.
- The Falcons are still in the playoff hunt despite a recent 1-4 stretch.
- Michael Penix Jr. is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the offense as a rookie.
Kirk Cousins | QB
Injury
Week 15
18 pass TDs
16 interceptions
- Cousins has thrown 18 touchdown passes and 16 interceptions this season.
- His QBR of 52.7 ranks 22nd in the league.
- He has struggled significantly during a 1-4 stretch, throwing only one touchdown and nine interceptions.
Michael Penix | QB
Breakout
Pickup
Week 15
- Penix was drafted as a long-term investment but is now being thrust into a starting role.
- The Falcons hope he can immediately improve the offense.
Atlanta Falcons
- The Falcons are still in the NFC South hunt despite recent struggles.
- The decision to bench Cousins indicates a shift in strategy as they aim for immediate improvement.
Kirk Cousins | QB
Injury
Week 15
9 interceptions
- Cousins has thrown 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions this season.
- His QBR of 52.7 ranks 22nd in the league, prompting the benching.
Michael Penix | QB
Breakout
Pickup
- Penix was drafted with the No. 8 overall pick and is now being thrust into a starting role.
- The Falcons are hoping for immediate improvement from the rookie quarterback.
Atlanta Falcons
- The Falcons are still in the playoff hunt at 7-7 despite a recent 1-4 stretch.
- The decision to start Penix indicates a shift in strategy as they look for a spark to salvage their season.
Kirk Cousins | QB
Injury
Week 15
18 pass TDs
16 interceptions
- Struggled significantly this season with 18 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.
- Benched after a 1-4 stretch where he threw only one touchdown and nine interceptions.
Michael Penix | QB
Breakout
Pickup
- Drafted 8th overall, he is seen as a long-term investment now being called upon for immediate results.
- Expected to improve the offense as a rookie despite the team's struggles.
Atlanta Falcons
- Currently 7-7 and still in the NFC South playoff race.
- Transitioning from a veteran quarterback to a rookie in hopes of revitalizing their season.