Atlanta Falcons vs New York Giants Picks and Predictions December 22nd 2024

Falcons Turn to Rookie Michael Penix Jr. Against Giants

The Atlanta Falcons, desperate to revive their fading playoff hopes, have made a bold move by benching veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr. The eighth overall pick will make his first career start Sunday against the New York Giants in Atlanta.

Falcons’ Playoff Hopes Hinge on Change

Just six weeks ago, the Falcons were cruising atop the NFC South with a 6-3 record, but a recent 1-4 stretch has pushed them to 7-7, trailing the division-leading Tampa Bay Buccaneers by one game. Kirk Cousins, brought in on a four-year, $180 million deal, has struggled mightily, throwing just one touchdown and nine interceptions over the past six games.

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Head coach Raheem Morris made it clear the move to Penix is about performance, despite the financial implications of benching Cousins.

“Obviously, we’ve got to play better at that position,” Morris said. “Michael’s been grinding, learning from Kirk, and now it’s his time to step up.”

Penix, a standout at Washington, has shown flashes of promise in limited action, completing 3 of 5 passes for 38 yards in two appearances this season.

Cousins acknowledged his shortcomings.

“There’s a standard I have for myself and the team has for me,” Cousins said. “Unfortunately, I wasn’t playing up to it consistently. Now, it’s about supporting Michael and helping the team win these last three games.”

Giants Eyeing Top Draft Pick Amid Turmoil

The New York Giants (2-12) are in a very different position, tied with the Raiders for the NFL’s worst record. The Giants are enduring a franchise-tying nine-game losing streak and are firmly in the race for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Quarterback inconsistency has plagued New York all season. After releasing Daniel Jones in November, the Giants have started a revolving door of signal-callers, including Tommy DeVito, Tim Boyle, and Drew Lock. Lock, who missed last week’s 35-14 loss to Baltimore with heel and elbow injuries, is expected to return Sunday.

Amid the struggles, head coach Brian Daboll faces questions about his job security. Daboll remained focused on the task at hand.
“I just focus on things I can control,” Daboll said. “We’re getting ready for the Falcons.”

Key Injuries

The Falcons will be without kicker Younghoe Koo, placed on injured reserve with a hip injury. Riley Patterson, signed off the Browns’ practice squad, will handle kicking duties. Wide receiver KhaDarel Hodge (ribs) and tight ends Ross Dwelley (ankle) and Charlie Woerner (quad) were limited in practice Wednesday.

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The Giants have a lengthy injury list as well. Linebackers Brian Burns (ankle/neck), Patrick Johnson (knee), and Bobby Okereke (back) missed practice Wednesday, along with guard Aaron Stinnie (concussion) and cornerback Greg Stroman (shoulder/shin).

Outlook

The Falcons are banking on Penix to provide a spark in what has become a must-win game to keep their playoff hopes alive. Meanwhile, the Giants will be focused on evaluating talent and playing spoiler. While the stakes differ, both teams are looking to find positives in what has been a trying season.