The Atlanta Falcons are in urgent need of a win this Sunday as they fall behind in the NFC South division standings, trailing both the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, the Falcons face a significant challenge: their starting quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., is expected to miss Week 8 due to a bone bruise.
### Michael Penix Jr. to Miss Week 8
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Penix is listed as questionable on the injury report after sustaining the bone bruise in last week’s game against the San Francisco 49ers. Although Penix expressed optimism earlier this week about playing against the Miami Dolphins, the Falcons are opting to take a cautious approach given his injury history. Rapoport noted that Penix has a “real chance” to return in Week 9 when Atlanta faces the New England Patriots. He also mentioned that “if it was a playoff game” in Week 8, Penix might have suited up, indicating just how close he was to playing this Sunday.
### Kirk Cousins to Start in Place of Penix
With Penix sidelined, veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins is expected to step in as the Falcons’ starting QB against the Dolphins. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Saturday that Cousins is “highly likely” to start the game while Penix rests his knee. Throughout the week, Cousins practiced with the first-team offense, preparing to lead the team on Sunday.
Cousins has seen minimal action this season, playing only a few snaps in Week 3. The last time he started for the Falcons was back in December 2024 before the team transitioned the starting role to Penix.
### A Favorable Matchup for Cousins and the Falcons
Despite the setback of losing their starting quarterback, the Falcons have a favorable matchup against a Miami defense that has struggled this season. Falcons fans will be hoping for a strong performance from Cousins and a much-needed win to help keep their playoff hopes alive.
### Game Details
The Falcons face the Dolphins this Sunday at 1 PM ET. With a lot on the line, Atlanta will look to rally behind Cousins and secure a crucial victory in Week 8.
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