The Atlanta Falcons couldn’t get the win over the Carolina Panthers to close out the season, but they were eliminated from the playoff race before Sunday’s 44-38 overtime loss was over.

While the team’s offensive performance was encouraging, the defense’s poor play was extremely concerning. Despite putting up 38 points and 537 yards of offense, the Falcons had literally no answer for Panthers quarterback Bryce Young.

Atlanta failed to apply any pressure and the secondary gave up too many big plays. However, there was one undeniable bright spot in Sunday’s high-scoring season finale. 

Rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was absolutely electric in his third NFL start. The No. 8 pick in the draft passed for a career-high 312 passing yards and two touchdowns against the Panthers. 

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris wasn’t happy with his team’s overall effort but couldn’t help but be encouraged by Penix’s play on Sunday. 

Falcons head coach Raheem Morris: “The light at the end of the tunnel for us, despite how bad and poor we played on defense or anywhere is the quarterback. … Michael Penix is certainly outstanding. He certainly one of the guys that’s going to play in this league and absolutely…

— Terrin Waack (@TerrinWaack) January 5, 2025

“The light at the end of the tunnel for us, despite how bad and poor we played on defense or anywhere is the quarterback,” Morris said in his postgame press conference. “Michael Penix is certainly outstanding. He certainly one of the guys that’s going to play in this league and absolutely dominate for us as long as we allow him.”

Penix did everything he possibly could to put the Falcons in position to win the last two games. The rookie led clutch touchdown drives to send both games to overtime but the defense let the team down. 

The Falcons have a lot to figure out this offseason, but the future looks bright with Penix leading the way.