Michael Penix Jr. could have crumbled. A pair of negative plays outside his control threatened the Atlanta Falcons' comeback effort against the Washington Commanders. Between a phantom holding call an

WATCH: Falcons QB Michael Penix Jr. throws first career TD to Kyle Pitts on 4th and goal to tie the game against the Commanders

When Atlanta drafted Michael Penix Jr. just weeks after signing Kirk Cousins to a massive franchise-cornerstone deal, the disbelief and derision rained down from all corners of the NFL world — fans, media,