{
  "id": 3550564,
  "title": "Falcons OC Weighs In on Tua Tagovailoa vs Michael Penix QB Battle",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/26/falcons-oc-weighs-in-on-tua-tagovailoa-vs-michael-penix-qb-battle",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-26T17:01:37.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/falcons-oc-weighs-in-on-tua-tagovailoa-vs-michael-penix-qb-battle-12371512"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Atlanta Falcons offensive coordinator Tommy Rees shared his thoughts on the quarterback battle between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr. Rees stated that the team is evaluating how both players have handled the new offensive system and their performance. He mentioned that there has been an open dialogue among the coaches, with mutual respect for their work together. Rees noted that Tagovailoa has more hard evidence on the field, but it's the role of the coaches to ensure a fair evaluation of both quarterbacks. Tagovailoa has appeared in both of Atlanta's first preseason games, while Penix Jr. has returned to full practice. Penix may get the chance to start in the preseason finale against Miami, but Tagovailoa could be his final opportunity to prove he deserves the starting position. The Falcons' regular season opener is scheduled for Sunday, September 13 against the Steelers.",
  "summary": "Falcons OC Tommy Rees breaks down the QB evaluation process as Tua Tagovailoa's struggles open the door for Michael Penix.",
  "key_points": [
    "Falcons OC Tommy Rees comments on QB battle between Tagovailoa and Penix Jr.",
    "Both players evaluated on performance in new offensive system.",
    "Tagovailoa has more playing time, Penix could start in final preseason game."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}