The Atlanta Falcons were heavy favorites entering the day against the Carolina Panthers. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. struggled big time for Atlanta as he only completed 50 percent of his passes for 172 yards and two interceptions.
One of his interceptions in the game was returned for a touchdown. The Falcons lost the game to the Panthers by a final score of 30-0. There are major questions about Penix moving forward. After starting out 1-2, should the Falcons bench him and start Kirk Cousins the next game?
Atlanta Falcons Fans Call for Michael Penix Jr. to be Benched
When the Falcons offense struggled against the Panthers, many fans on Twitter were calling for Penix to be benched in the game.
Why is Michael Penix JR still in this ball game when Kirk Cousins is on your bench? #Falcons
— 👁️ (@R_maldonado5) September 21, 2025
It’s time to bench Michael Penix Jr.
— DivaD4k (@D4DDYD4K) September 21, 2025
Kirk Cousins — a QB who has proven *much* more than Michael Penix — is available on our bench.
— Cody (@CodyNichelson) September 21, 2025
And just sitting there.
Well, Penix did wind up getting benched after all for Cousins. He completed 5-of-7 passes for 29 yards. Head coach Raheem Morris will have to decide if Penix or Cousins is going to start in week four against the Washington Commanders. Atlanta has a quarterback controversy on its hands. The offense should not have scored zero points against a bad Panthers team. Maybe, Penix isn't the long-term answer for the Falcons after all.
More NFL News:
Why Falcons benched Michael Penix for Kirk Cousins at QB | Sporting News