The Atlanta Falcons face the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football as Michael Penix Jr. returns from his ACL injury. Our Falcons Roundtable breaks down Atlanta's 0-2 start, Penix's expectations, Green Bay's weaknesses, bold predictions and Week 3 score picks.
The Atlanta Falcons are 0-2 and now head into a short week on the road against the Green Bay Packers.
The team will look for a better result as starting quarterback Michael Penix returns to the lineup for the first time in almost a year.
On this week's Falcons roundtable, the staff discussed his return, the team so far this season, and what to expect on Thursday night football.
What are your thoughts on the team overall thus far following the first two weeks of the season?
Michael Brauner: They have been completely dreadful, but I am willing to overlook that until we see what they look like with Penix back. That being said, they should have been competitive against Carolina, instead they lost by 31 points.
Christian Rauh: It's hard to feel good about anything we've seen. The Falcons are 0-2, haven't reached the red zone, and just lost 34-3 at home to Carolina. Quarterback injuries haven't helped, but this team needs to show us something quickly.
We will finally see Michael Penix this week. How high are your expectations?
Michael Brauner: I think we need to temper expectations just a little bit. The offense should look way cleaner, but Penix is going to inevitably have some rust to shake off. If he can help the offense look competent again, I will be happy.
Christian Rauh: I'm excited to see Penix, but I'm keeping expectations reasonable. This is his first game since tearing his ACL last November, and he's walking into Lambeau on a short week. If he can prove that he can move the offense functionally, then my vibe will change quickly, beginning next week
What kind of challenge will the Packers bring to the Falcons?
Michael Brauner: A big one, especially coming off two rough performances against the Vikings and Jets the first two weeks. Green Bay will be playing its home opener as well, which always makes things tough. If Jordan Love has a big night, it could be tough to keep up.
Christian Rauh: Definitely agree that is a big challenge for the Atlanta Falcons. However, Green Bay hasn't impressed me as much as I thought they would to begin the season. The team has struggled with consistency and almost lost to the New York Jets in overtime last week. They're not a disciplined team, as they had 14 penalties, and the run game is a little suspect. It is a winnable game, but that's only if Atlanta can prove they have an offense.
Bold prediction for Thursday night football?
Michael Brauner: Zachariah Branch takes a punt to the house!
Christian Rauh: Michael Penix throws for 250-plus yards and two touchdowns, and the Falcons finally reach the red zone. I know, really going out on a limb with that last one. More importantly, Atlanta's offense looks completely different with Penix and keeps this game interesting into the fourth quarter.
Score prediction? Will Atlanta pick up their first win of the season?
Michael Brauner: Falcons 23, Packers 19. Falcons get their first victory of the season on the road and in desperate need!
Christian Rauh: Packers 24, Falcons 20. I think Michael Penix gives this offense a much-needed spark, and we finally see Atlanta move the football consistently. But asking him to win his first game back at Lambeau on a short week is a lot. Give me Green Bay in a close one.
