Falcons Braced for Challenging Debut in Week One

Atlanta Falcons Prepare for 2022 Season with New Offensive Line and Quarterback

The Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for the 2022 NFL season, and their offense looks set to be a formidable force. With a mix of experienced players and new additions, the team is aiming to build on their solid offensive stats from the 2021 season.

Michael Penix Jr. has been tipped to start as quarterback for the first full season, replacing the injured Kaleb McGary and Storm Norton. Elijah Wilkinson, who has 45 starts to his credit since entering the league in 2017, will take over at tackle. Wilkinson started eight games for the Falcons at guard in 2022, and his previous experience with the team has made it easier for his teammates to trust and accept him back.

Coach Raheem Morris believes the offense was close to being great in the 2021 season, and he is confident about its progress in its second year under Zac Robinson. The Falcons' offense finished the 2021 season sixth in yards per game (369.8) and in the top half of the league in points (22.9 ppg).

The Falcons' success in the 2022 season may heavily depend on the performance of Penix Jr. and Wilkinson. Penix feels prepared for Week One of the NFL season, while Wilkinson feels comfortable returning to the Falcons as he has played with the team before. Michael Jerrell, the new right tackle signed by the Falcons as a replacement for the injured McGary and the injured reserve player Norton, is also expected to play a crucial role.

The Falcons' first game of the 2022 season will be against their division rival, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday at 1 p.m. The combined score in a previous game between these teams was 61.5 points, indicating a high-scoring encounter.

The Falcons' offense will have an array of weapons, making them a threat to any team they face. With Penix Jr. leading the charge and Wilkinson providing solid protection, the Falcons are well-positioned to have a successful 2022 season.