The Atlanta Falcons have made a significant change at quarterback, opting to start rookie Michael Penix Jr. while benching veteran Kirk Cousins as they strive for their first playoff appearance since 2017.

Coach Raheem Morris confirmed the decision, emphasizing that it was a football-related choice aimed at maximizing the team's performance for their upcoming game against the New York Giants. The Falcons recently snapped a four-game losing streak with a narrow victory over the Las Vegas Raiders.