The Atlanta Falcons just dropped a bombshell on the Green Bay Packers last week, absolutely stomping them in Michael Penix Jr.’s first start of the year. After a dreadful 0-2 start with Cooper Rush under center, this team found its stride, pouring on 498 yards of offense in Week 3 and securing their first win of the season. It was a complete turnaround from their first two games where they managed a pathetic 524 total yards.
Penix Jr. Unleashed The Kraken, And Atlanta Is Rolling
Look, the Falcons’ offense was non-existent for the first two weeks. Seriously, they didn’t even sniff the red zone in those games, just a total mess. But then Penix Jr. returned from his latest knee injury and took the reins in Week 3, and everything changed. Even after an early game-opening interception, he bounced back strong. Bijan Robinson and Drake London both went completely berserk against Green Bay, racking up 194 yards on the ground and through the air, respectively. We’re talking 256 yards through the air and 242 on the ground in one game. That’s a massive shift, and it shows you what this team can do when their offense clicks.
Saints Defense Is Getting Carved Up Early
Now, the New Orleans Saints? They’re coming into this Monday night matchup at 1-2 after a brutal loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. They coughed up the ball four times in that game, and their defense got absolutely carved up by Kirk Cousins and Brock Bowers. They also took a huge hit, losing running back Travis Etienne to injured reserve in the same game. This defense has been leaky, giving up over 30 points in two of their three games already this season, 31 to the Lions and 35 to the Raiders. Sure, they held the Ravens to 17 points in their other outing, but their offense has been doing them no favors. New Orleans’ opponents are starting their average drive at the 34.8-yard line, which is the third-closest to the end zone in the entire league, thanks to a combined seven turnovers by the Saints’ offense. That kind of field position is a killer.
The most electrifying matchup to keep your eyes on in this one is Falcons wideout Drake London against Saints cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry. London was quiet with only six catches for 80 yards in the first two games with Cooper Rush at quarterback. But with Penix Jr. back? He exploded for nine catches and 194 yards last week. London clearly has a monster target share when Penix is slinging it, and he’s going to be a handful for McKinstry all night.
This NFC South showdown kicks off Monday, Oct. 5, at 8:15 p.m. ET from the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Can the Saints find a way to rebound at home, or will the Falcons keep their momentum rolling and make it two wins in a row? This is going to be a wild one.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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