Michael Penix Jr. may have just put up the worst performance by a quarterback this season.
On Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Atlanta Falcons‘ third-year signal-caller threw four interceptions against zero touchdowns in what would prove to be a 0-16 shutout loss in the rain. Half of those picks went to linebacker Alex Anzalone.
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Plenty of condemnation was directed toward him throughout the afternoon:
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“Might as well put Tua Tagovailoa in,” one suggested.
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“He has more completions to the defense than his own team,” one cringed.
“Tua dressed as Penix for Halloween,” another imagined.
“Fraud watch,” another sensed.
“Time for Tua, please,” one begged.
“Maybe Tua should play, lol,” another recommended.
The Falcons’ brightest offensive spot was Jahan Dotson, who had 95 yards on two catches, including a 76-yarder. Bijan Robinson rushed 19 times for 76 yards.
The Buccaneers, meanwhile, focused on their ground game, which proved crucial as Baker Mayfield failed to complete any of his three passing attempts in bad weather. Bucky Irving generated 170 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries, while Kenneth Gainwell carried the ball 25 times for 140 yards. Mayfield himself had four rushes for 14 yards.
Michael Penix Jr. refuses to use rain as excuse for disastrous performance vs. Bucs
After the game, Michael Penix Jr. addressed the media backstage.
While the torrential rain did somewhat factor into his inability to find his targets, he refused to blame it for his struggles:
“The conditions are what the conditions are. Both teams have to play in it. … As a quarterback, as a leader, I have to protect the ball. That’s the only way we’re going to be able to win these games.”
He continued:
“It is tough. I had a lot of family in the stands. So for them to see that performance, it’s a performance I’ve never had in my life.”
Meanwhile, head coach Kevin Stefanski assured that Penix’s spot was not in jeopardy despite the performance:
“I think obviously we can do a better job. Mike can do a better job. I can do a better job. But no, I don’t (have any concerns).”
The Falcons next take on the Cincinnati Bengals in Madrid a week from now. Kickoff is at 9:30 a.m. ET/3:30 p.m. CET on the NFL Network.
Edited by Andre Castillo
