Michael Penix Jr. Excites NFL Fans as Falcons Beat Giants After Kirk Cousins Benched

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 over the New York Giants after Kirk Cousins' benching earlier this week.

The No. 8 overall pick had a decent outing in his first start, throwing for 202 passing yards on 18-of-27 passing. He had one interception, but it was hardly his fault as he found Kyle Pitts for what would have been a first down, but Pitts bobbled the ball and gave it away to the Giants' defense.

The Falcons didn't need Penix to shine in his first start as the defense stepped up in a big way, accounting for two touchdowns on the day. Jessie Bates III had a 55-yard pick-six and Matthew Judon had a 27-yard touchdown off of an interception. Running back Bijan Robinson also had two touchdowns on the ground.

After the win, fans were excited by Penix's promising first start.

NFL fans were surprised when Atlanta decided to draft Penix so early after giving Cousins a four-year, $180 million contract this offseason, but that decision could end up paying off if he continues to develop well over the next few years.

The Falcons have a decision to make about whether or not to cut Cousins, but for now, fans have something to look forward to with Penix under center.