The Atlanta Falcons have started to find their identity, and Jessie Bates III believes the return of Michael Penix Jr. has played a major role.
Bates spoke after Atlanta’s 45-24 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Monday night, praising the difference he has seen from the team since the quarterback returned to action.
The Falcons entered the game 1-2, but they never trailed against New Orleans and quickly silenced the home crowd at the Caesars Superdome.
“We just want to show the world who we can be,” Bates said. “The first two weeks were not up to our standards. Obviously, when you got No. 9 back there dealing, it’s a whole different team.”
Penix completed 15 of 20 passes for 223 yards and a touchdown without throwing an interception. His fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Jahan Dotson helped put the game out of reach.
The Falcons also controlled the game on the ground. Bijan Robinson rushed for 145 yards and two touchdowns, including a 59-yard score, while Brian Robinson Jr. added three rushing touchdowns.
Atlanta’s offense finished with 420 total yards, giving the defense plenty of support throughout the night. The Falcons also limited Saints running back Alvin Kamara to 15 rushing yards.
Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
For Bates, the performance offered a glimpse of what Atlanta can become with Penix operating the offense.
The Falcons have now won two straight after their difficult start. If they can maintain that balance on both sides of the ball, Bates and his teammates may have finally found the formula they were searching for.
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