3 takeaways from the Atlanta Falcons preseason opener
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Michael Penix Jr. made his NFL debut in the Falcons' preseason opener Friday versus Miami. Photo: Rich Storry/Getty Images
The journey to the regular season kicked off Friday as the Atlanta Falcons opened their preseason with a 20-13 loss against the Miami Dolphins.
Why it matters: It was the first time fans got to see the new look team under new head coach Raheem Morris.
Yes, but: Given that it was the first preseason game of the year, Morris sat most players that would have a meaningful impact this season, including new quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Here are three takeaways we learned from the Falcons matchup against the Dolphins:
Michael Penix Jr. has a bright future
The Falcons were the story of the NFL Draft after selecting quarterback Penix Jr. in the first round about a month after signing Cousins to a massive free-agent deal.
Between the lines: The team's brass has attempted to squash any concerns by declaring that this is Cousins' job and team, but Penix Jr. made some throws Friday that will undoubtedly have the fan base clamoring to see him as the starter sooner rather than later.
- He went 9-for-16 for 104 yards, including a beautiful deep ball in the first quarter, and engineered the team's only touchdown drive of the game.
The new kickoff rule is interesting
The NFL revamped the kickoff for this season in an effort to reduce injuries but bring the excitement of the play back into the game.
Zoom in: Gone are the days of 11 players lining up and running into full speed collisions to start the game and after each score. Instead, players line up five yards apart from each other and can't engage until the ball enters the "landing zone."
- It looks more like a glorified running play but will hopefully allow for more returns as a good block could allow the ball carrier to break free.
Staying healthy will be key
The Falcons haven't been lucky with the injury bug so far. Wide receiver Rondale Moore, who Atlanta acquired in exchange for Desmond Ridder, is out for the season after a suffering a knee injury during a joint practice with Miami.
- Safety DeMarcco Hellams was carted off the field during the game with his leg in an aircast, and third-round pick Bralen Trice also left Friday's game and did not return following an injury.
What's next: Atlanta plays its second preseason game at Baltimore Saturday at noon.