When Atlanta drafted Michael Penix Jr. just weeks after signing Kirk Cousins to a massive franchise-cornerstone deal, the disbelief and derision rained down from all corners of the NFL world — fans, media,

With the game on the line, Penix stood tall. It didn’t lead to a win, but it’s a source of hope for the Falcons.

The Atlanta Falcons entered Sunday with a chance to clinch their first playoff berth since 2017. They left Northwest Stadium in Landover, Md., with heartbreak. Atlanta (8-8) fell 30-24 in overtime to the Washington Commanders (11-5) on Sunday Night Football,