Analyze Michael Penix's matchup for week 9
Penix is questionable with a bone-bruise knee injury, projected for only 7.5 fantasy points, and carries reinjury risk against a middling Patriots pass defense, making him a clear sit in Week 9.
New England’s defense ranks 19th in passing yards allowed (224.4 per game) and has surrendered multiple TD passes to four QBs, but no one has topped two in a game. Their 18.1 fantasy points per game to the position is league-average, yet a steady pass rush could exploit Penix’s limited mobility if the bone bruise flares.
Over his last three healthy games Penix averaged 15.2 fantasy points and a 40 % third-down conversion rate, but he still sits 27th among QBs at 13.1 PPG with a 61 % completion rate and 3 INTs in six starts.
The Falcons’ rookie left Week 8 with a bone bruise and remains day-to-day; even if active, the injury can restrict planting and pocket movement, capping both yardage and touchdown upside. Projections slot him at just 7.5 points—barely QB2 range—while Kirk Cousins waits in the wings to vulture snaps if Penix shows any limp. With only four teams on bye, viable streamers like Drake Maye, Caleb Williams, and Jordan Love offer safer floors and comparable ceilings, making Penix an unnecessary gamble in a pivotal late-season week. Bench him and pivot to a healthier option rather than risking a zero or early exit that could derail playoff positioning.