At the start of the week, Atlanta Falcons head coach, Raheem Morris, announced Michael Penix Jr. and the offensive starters would not play in their preseason opener against the Detroit Lions on Friday. Initially received well, 92-9 The Game’s Carl Dukes and Mike Bell expressed being onboard with Morris’ decision due to the fact the staring offensive linemen would not be playing.
However, on Thursday, the sentiment changed for the afternoon duo as they reported on several established quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow scheduled to play in their respective preseason openers.
“I’m really not trying to press this, but the more I hear about quarterbacks playing in the preseason, the more I’m wondering why our guy is not,” Dukes said as he expressed some concern on Penix Jr. sitting out of Friday’s matchup.
“What makes our guy so different than some of the guys I’ve just mentioned,” Dukes asked after noting Burrow and Cam Ward among the quarterbacks who will be playing in preseason games.
“I’d like to see my guys in a game scenario for at least a quarter, maybe more, get two or three series and get into a rhythm,” Bell said as he explained why he was in agreeance with Penix Jr. playing on Friday. “I think that’s just common sense to get you ready for the season,” Bell added.