Michael Penix Jr. did not waste time announcing his return from his ACL injury, as he led the Atlanta Falcons past the Green Bay Packers, 35-14, at Lambeau Field on Thursday.
Penix and the Falcons gatecrashed the season opener of the Packers, who were mired anew in an offensive rut. Penix went 18-of-25 for 256 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
The 26-year-old Penix was a bit emotional in the postgame interview.
“I got two words: But God,” said the young quarterback.
“I'm just so thankful, so blessed to be back in this position. I've been fighting and scratching for a long time to get to where I'm at today.”
Atlanta went 0-2 when Penix was still sidelined, with Cooper Rush and Jack Strand filling in for him. Tua Tagovailoa, who was supposed to be the starter while Penix was still recovering, suffered an oblique injury before Week 1.
The Falcons will battle the New Orleans Saints in Week 4.
More details to come.