It’s that time of the year again in Atlanta when everyone is sitting with pen, paper, and calculator, drawing different permutations and combinations that can see them through to the playoffs. But Raheem Morris is not the one to leave it all on math! Atlanta is shaking things up. And Coach Morris seems all-in on rookie Michael Penix Jr. over Kirk Cousins.

And honestly, after Sunday’s performance, can you blame him? “I was really pleased with his composure and his poise,” Morris said, adding, “Realistically, it was a pretty clean game at the quarterback position. … I thought he did a great job of taking what was given to him, looking at his reads, throwing to open receivers, and really putting some nice zip on it.”

Michael Penix’s first start was a statement win, throwing for 202 yards in a dominant 34-7 victory over the Giants. Not bad for a guy thrust into the spotlight late in the season. But let’s be real—this isn’t just about one good game. Atlanta (8-7) clawed its way back to the top of the NFC South after Tampa Bay stumbled against Dallas. With two games left, the Falcons control their playoff fate for the first time in years.

And hey, who doesn’t love a little December drama? Sunday’s game against Washington is massive. A win there, plus another Buccaneers loss, could lock in Atlanta’s first division title since 2016.

Meanwhile, this matchup also has a touch of nostalgia. Raheem Morris and Commanders coach Dan Quinn go way back. From college days at Hofstra to coaching together in Atlanta, their connection runs deep. But this week? Morris isn’t here for sentimental reunions. “This week, he’s a nameless gray face,” he said. Translation: no friends, only foes.

So, Michael Penix or bust? It sure feels like Atlanta is betting big on their rookie to deliver. And after all, isn’t this what December football is all about—high stakes, bold moves, and teams fighting to stay alive? But it also brings predictions, and this NFL insider is not afraid to say his pick out loud.

Can Michael Penix Jr & Co. overcome Jayden Daniels?

USA Network‘s Tyler Dragon laid his thoughts straight on NFL on FOX, saying: “He [Daniels] has them [the Commanders] looking like a completely different team. That fan base is rejuvenated from top down. The way he’s helped energize that fan base is incredible. The defense is playing better; they’re playing over their heads.” But is it really an exaggeration? Tyler has gone all-in for a Washington victory.

However, there’s a lot of play here. You’ve got two rookie QBs, Michael Penix Jr and Jayden Daniels, who were basically ‘bros‘ before the draft, now facing off with playoff implications on the line. Imagine, these guys were training together, dreaming big, and now they’re here, under the bright lights, clutching up for their respective teams. Michael Penix, after ‘riding the pine‘ for most of the season, is finally getting his shot to show out.

And Daniels? He’s been a gunslinger all year, leading those Commanders down some incredible comebacks. Remember that Hail Mary against the Bears? Pure magic. Daniels has been incredibly efficient, with a 72.2% completion percentage, connecting on 236 of 327 passes. He has thrown for 3,812 yards and demonstrated a knack for clutch performances, including orchestrating that incredible comeback win against the Eagles.

Additionally, the Falcons need to win out to clinch the division. No pressure, right? But if they lose to the Commanders, they’re basically on the ropes. This ain’t just another game; this is a “must-win” situation. You can practically feel the tension building. This is the kind of game that gets your blood pumping, you know? The kind where you’re on the edge of your seat, yelling at the TV, Go for it! Go for it!

So, it’s gonna be a dogfight all the way to the final whistle. What have you got? Well, we are all rooting for a classic! You know, the kind where the score is close, the defense makes some game-changing plays, and the winning touchdown comes in the final seconds. Now that’s what I call must-see TV.