The Falcons enter Thursday night’s clash with the Packers at +7, a number that has dropped sharply in recent days due to injury updates on both sides. Michael Penix Jr. is set to start for Atlanta, with Tua Tagovailoa cleared to back him up. This development gives the Falcons more quarterback depth after a difficult start to the season.
Atlanta’s offense has struggled through the first two weeks, scoring just one touchdown and failing to get a snap in the red zone. Their defense was torn apart by the Panthers at home, exposing ongoing issues. The touchdown came on a 23-yard reception by Bijan Robinson from Cooper Rush, a rare bright spot in the Falcons’ 120 minutes of game time. The quarterback situation has been unstable, but Penix’s return offers a boost. SportsLine alerted subscribers to Falcons +7 on Monday, a line that now looks like solid value ahead of kickoff.
Though the Falcons have been the worst-performing team so far, a win Thursday could put them in an unexpected spot atop their division by Week 4, depending on other results. It’s not out of the question for Atlanta to trail by a touchdown or more during the game and still find a way through late opportunities.
Wide receiver Drake London has been a disappointment this season, particularly with Cooper Rush and Jack Strand under center. However, Penix’s presence raises London’s target share significantly. While Penix is not considered an elite quarterback, he is fighting for his future in the league, and London is expected to benefit from that effort on Thursday.
The Packers’ backfield remains unsettled, with Aaron Jones out and AJ Dillon involved in a rotation that makes predicting carries difficult. Rookie Christian Watson emerged as a deep threat last week and showed versatility lining up in the slot on a green zone play where he faked a fade and broke toward the back of the end zone to connect with Jordan Love. Watson’s role as a reliable target near the end zone could increase, especially with the Packers’ run game still finding its footing.
Atlanta is likely to focus on containing Bijan Robinson near the goal line, which could open opportunities for London as a red-zone target. London is regarded as an elite threat in scoring areas but has lacked chances due to limited snaps and offensive production. That dynamic should change Thursday with Penix under center.
The injury situation for the Packers casts a shadow over their offensive options. Without a clear lead back, the team appears to rely more on sneak plays and dump-off passes to keep drives alive. One suggested play is a simple swing pass to Dillon on a third-and-long scenario, providing short-yardage gains and moving the chains.
For bettors, these factors create a layered picture. The Falcons’ quarterback upgrade and London’s increased involvement offer value on player props, while the Packers’ adjusted running game and Watson’s emerging chemistry with Love present additional angles. The Falcons are not expected to dominate, but the matchup and recent developments could lead to a closer game than the early season struggles suggest.
The latest update confirms Michael Penix Jr. will start for the Falcons, with Tua Tagovailoa available as backup, while the Packers continue to work through injuries and rotations at running back. These conditions set the stage for an intriguing Thursday night contest that could reshape the NFC South standings.
According to CBS.
