Falcons' Morris: Penix remains starter despite shutout loss

Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris said second-year quarterback Michael Penix will remain the starter despite Sunday's 30-0 loss to the Carolina Panthers, according to team reporter Tori McElhaney.

Penix, who's struggled in his first season as the Falcons' full-time starter, completed 18 of 36 passes for 172 yards and two interceptions, including a pick-6 in the third quarter. Atlanta replaced the 2024 first-rounder with veteran Kirk Cousins late in the fourth quarter with Carolina leading 27-0.

"He just missed his throws today. Won't make excuses for him," Morris said of Penix's performance.

Cousins went 5-for-7 passing with 29 yards in his brief appearance.

Penix has thrown only one touchdown in three games this season. Sunday's defeat dropped the Falcons to 1-2.