"Getting his first primetime action of 2025, all eyes will be on Penix, who will be battling fellow 2024 first-round quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings starter. Storylines abound over the Falcons' decision to select Penix over McCarthy last year, given that McCarthy was ranked ahead of him on consensus draft boards, contributing to the initial backlash against the pick. Penix can quiet a lot of critics and skeptics with a big game in the spotlight that comes on Sunday night."
"The Falcons get the triumphant return of wide receiver Darnell Mooney this week after missing nearly all of training camp with a shoulder injury. Having their most explosive receiver and field stretcher back should provide a massive boost to the passing attack. The challenge will be whether he and Penix can immediately pick up where they left off in terms of precise timing without a ton of work this summer."
"The Falcons need a better day from their left guard, Matthew Bergeron, who needs to step up. The left side of the Falcons' offensive line needs to become a strength, given the significant blow the right side has taken due to tackle Kaleb McGary's season-ending injury. They did not see that last week, averaging just 1.5 yards per carry on 11 runs to the left versus 2.8 yards on 11 tries to the right, according to PFF."
Michael Penix will draw primetime attention as he faces 2024 first-round quarterback J.J. McCarthy and can silence critics with a strong Sunday night performance. Darnell Mooney returns from a shoulder injury to restore the Falcons' most explosive receiving threat and stretching ability, potentially boosting the passing game. The immediate chemistry between Mooney and Penix remains a question due to limited summer practice. The left side of the offensive line, led by left guard Matthew Bergeron, must become a strength to offset Kaleb McGary's season-ending injury after poor left-side rushing results last week. Jake Matthews remains a top pass protector but has documented run-blocking limitations at age 33.
Read at The Falcoholic
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