Penix inactive with knee bruise as Falcons start Cousins vs Dolphins

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. was ruled inactive for Sunday’s home game against the Miami Dolphins because of a bone bruise to his left knee, the team announced about 90 minutes before kickoff. Veteran Kirk Cousins started in his place, and top wide receiver Drake London was also listed as inactive with a hip injury. The Falcons lost 34-10.

Penix had been listed as questionable after sustaining the knee injury late in a Week 6 game against the San Francisco 49ers. He had told reporters midweek that he expected to play and coach Raheem Morris said the team would protect Penix and not risk putting him in a situation where he could not perform safely. The Falcons elevated backup Easton Stick from the practice squad on Saturday, indicating the team wanted extra depth behind Cousins.

Cousins, making his first start since giving way to Penix late last season, completed 21 of 31 passes for 173 yards in relief. He did not throw a touchdown or an interception as Atlanta’s offense struggled to move the ball, finishing with 213 total yards. The Falcons’ inability to generate points and sustain drives was a theme throughout the game; the team scored a combined 20 points in...