Commanders look to capitalize on Falcons’ struggling offense as Penix Jr. seeks redemption in pivotal Week 4 matchup
The Washington Commanders are gearing up to face an Atlanta Falcons squad that has encountered significant offensive hurdles. As they head into Week 4, the Commanders aim to secure their third win of the season, but standing in their way is a Falcons team in disarray following a heavy defeat.
Falcons in turmoil following tough loss
The Falcons recently suffered a demoralizing 30-0 loss to their NFC South rivals, the Carolina Panthers. In the wake of this defeat, the franchise made a bold move by firing wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard, a decision reflecting their urgent need for change. The Atlanta offense has struggled to find its rhythm, highlighted by quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s dismal performance.
Penix has completed just 31 of 57 passes (54.4%) for a mere 307 yards, with no touchdowns and two interceptions over the past two games. “The offense has scored just one touchdown in its last two outings,” reported a contributor for Atlanta Falcons On SI. The Falcons currently sit near the bottom of the league, ranking 31st in scoring offense with an average of 14.0 points per game. Their total offense ranks 13th, but they falter significantly in key efficiency metrics, landing 27th in expected points added (EPA) per play, 13th in EPA rushing, and 28th in EPA passing.
Commanders set to exploit Falcons’ weaknesses
For the Commanders, this matchup presents an opportunity to take advantage of a Falcons team that is clearly grappling with its identity and effectiveness on offense. Penix’s recent struggles, particularly his two costly interceptions against the Panthers, underscore his ongoing adjustment to the starting quarterback role in the NFL.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris acknowledged the challenges facing Penix, expressing a commitment to support his young quarterback. “There are definitely ways to get him [Penix] going,” Morris stated. “He has high standards for himself, so yesterday he got down on himself. He was not his normal, happy, competitive self. He got a little upset.”
Morris emphasized the pressure on a young quarterback and the coaching staff’s responsibility to help him navigate these tough moments. “Without a doubt, we’ll do those things going forward to help him out,” he assured.
Penix’s potential and the Commanders’ strategy
Despite his youth and inexperience, Penix possesses significant potential, having been the No. 8 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. His first NFL start came against the Commanders in December 2024, where he demonstrated flashes of talent. Yet, as he continues to learn and adapt, the Commanders must seize the moment to make things difficult for him on the field.
With both teams looking to establish a foothold this season, the Commanders are poised to exploit the Falcons’ vulnerabilities. The outcome of this clash will depend heavily on whether Penix can rise to the occasion or if the Commanders can capitalize on his struggles.
