The arrival of the Atlanta Falcons and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a> on Berlin’s turf has ignited more than just game-day excitement. Today, the historic Olympiastadion Berlin sets the stage for the league’s bold push into Europe.



Midway through the clash, a global star will take the spotlight for the halftime show, transforming a pause in the action into a cultural moment. With the ancient marble steps of the stadium as his backdrop, the performance is billed.



Fan zones, electric <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> pre-game build-up and a crowd expected to eclipse previous international fixtures all point to one thing: this isn’t just another Sunday matchup. It’s a statement that sport, music and momentum converge in Berlin.



<h2>Who’s the halftime show performer for the Colts vs Falcons game?</h2>



The NFL is setting the stage for a major international event in 2025 as it prepares to host its first-ever regular-season game in Berlin, Germany. The Indianapolis Colts will face the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> at the Olympiastadion for the historic matchup.



To match the magnitude of the occasion, the NFL has secured a global music icon to headline the crucial halftime show: GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum chart-topping superstar The Kid LAROI.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251109_BUS_522286_the-kid-laroid_b73099ee.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-522329"></figure><figcaption>The Kid LAROI attends the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. (Source: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The Australian sensation is scheduled to perform on the iconic Olympic Steps of the Olympiastadion, ensuring a showstopping spectacle for the thousands of fans in attendance.



Known worldwide as an international phenomenon, he has cemented his status by accumulating billions of streams, consistently dominating global charts, and successfully translating his music into sold-out tours across the world.



This move clearly demonstrates the NFL’s commitment to providing an elite entertainment experience for its growing international audience, particularly the passionate fanbase in Germany. Tim Tubito, the NFL’s senior director of global game presentation and entertainment, highlighted the perfect alignment: 



“Bringing an artist of The Kid LAROI’s caliber to the first regular-season NFL game in Berlin underscores our commitment to delivering world-class entertainment. The energy that he and his music bring perfectly matches the passionate atmosphere created by our incredible German fans. This halftime show should add yet another layer to an already exciting day of sport and entertainment”.

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Who's the halftime show performer for the Colts vs Falcons Week 10 Berlin game? - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The decision to stage the Indianapolis Colts versus the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> in Berlin transcends the boundaries of sport. This Week 10 matchup rings in not just a game, but a deliberate step in the NFL’s bold push into a passionate market.



Berlin’s historic Olympiastadion Berlin, once host to the 1936 Olympics and home to NFL Europe’s echoes, now welcomes its first regular-season <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> game. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Colts</a> have been tapped as the home team for this landmark event.



Away from the field, there’s a commercial and cultural story in motion: connections between Indiana and Germany, falcons unfurling wings in Europe, fans converging from both sides of the Atlantic.



<h2>Why the NFL is planting its flag in Berlin’s Olympiastadion?</h2>



The decision to pit the Indianapolis Colts against the Atlanta Falcons in Berlin for Week 10 is not just about scheduling an arbitrary international game; it is a calculated and deeply strategic move by the NFL to reinforce its commitment to a market it considers its top overall global frontier.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251109_BUS_522439_Daniel-Jones-1-1_0bd1a6b0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-522458"></figure><figcaption>Daniel Jones #17 of the Indianapolis Colts in 2025. (Source: Joe Sargent/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Germany has firmly established itself as a key core of the league’s worldwide ambitions, boasting an estimated 20 million fans, a figure that highlights both its raw fan count and high market penetration relative to its population. 



Berlin’s inclusion is the culmination of a successful German push, following previous regular-season games in Munich and Frankfurt since 2022. This historic matchup at the Olympiastadion, a venue rich in sports history that hosted an NFL preseason game 35 years ago and was once home to the NFL Europe’s Berlin Thunder, marks a significant return to the German capital.



Crucially, the move to Berlin is part of a multi-year commitment, with the city slated to host games in a rotational cycle that includes 2027 and 2029, cementing Germany’s status as a permanent fixture on the league’s international calendar.



This long-term planning is about far more than just selling tickets; it is an effort to drive deeper, year-round engagement through programs like Flag Football and substantial community events, often supported by a $14.3 million investment from the city of Berlin itself for stadium upgrades and local development.

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A wave of anticipation sweeps this morning as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Indianapolis Colts</a> and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> charge into Europe’s spotlight. The legendary Olympiastadion Berlin welcomes the NFL for another regular-season clash on German soil.



Inside the oval coliseum, tens of thousands of fans packed the stands, turning the venue into a roar of gridiron energy and international flair. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">National Football League</a>’s push into new markets has never felt more vivid.



As kickoff approached, the buzzing crowd set the tone for what promises to be one of the most globally-watched games this season. The atmosphere it’s about a cultural moment that stretches far beyond the playing field.



<h2>How many fans are attending the Colts vs. Falcons game?</h2>



On Sunday, November 9, the Indianapolis Colts will host the Atlanta Falcons in what becomes the first regular-season NFL game staged in Berlin, at the historic Olympiastadion Berlin. Kickoff is set for 9:30 p.m. ET in the German capital.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251109_BUS_522226_Laiatu-Latu-1024x576_7b72fc61.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-522281" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Laiatu Latu #97 of the Indianapolis Colts in 2025. (Source: Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Local organisers and the league expect the stadium to be filled to capacity: roughly 72,000 fans are forecast to attend, marking a sold-out event for what is being billed as a landmark international fixture.



The scale of this event reflects the rapid rise of American football. With 11 of the league’s 32 teams holding marketing rights in Germany, organizers see this Berlin matchup as both a sporting spectacle and a strategic push into a prime European market.



Tickets for the event are reported to have sparked green-room levels of demand, mirroring previous Germany-based NFL games and underscoring how the league’s international footprint continues to grow.

How many fans are attending the Colts vs Falcons Week 10 game in Berlin today?

How many fans are attending the Colts vs Falcons Week 10 game in Berlin today? - Bolavip US

Olympiastadion is set to hum with anticipation as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/indianapolis-colts">Colts</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Falcons</a> take the field for what marks one of the most ambitious international fixtures of the season. Before a single play is called, the pre-game ceremony will set the tone.



In a meaningful nod to both sides of the Atlantic, the vocal group German Gents will raise the German anthem first, followed by an American singer rendering the United States anthem.



As thousands of fans from Germany, America and beyond fill the stands, this moment before kickoff becomes more than ritual: it turns into a bridge between cultures, echoing the global reach of the game now being played in Europe.



<h2>Who’s performing the national anthems today?</h2>



The German National Anthem will be performed by the German Gents, and the U.S. National Anthem will be performed by Norma Jean Martine. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> is poised for a truly monumental occasion as the Indianapolis Colts and the Atlanta Falcons prepare to face off in the league’s first-ever regular-season game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251109_BUS_522346_Norma-Jean-Martine-1_01572587.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-522401"></figure><figcaption>Norma Jean Martine (Source: Universal Music)</figcaption></figure>



This event is far more than just a Week 10 matchup; it represents a significant step in the NFL’s global expansion, connecting the American sport with an increasingly passionate German fanbase. To honor the international nature of the game and the host city, the pre-game ceremony has been carefully curated to celebrate both German and American cultures.



The traditional pre-game anthem performances are always a highlight, but they hold special significance in an international setting, serving as a powerful moment of unity between the two nations.



With the atmosphere inside the Olympiastadion guaranteed to be electric, the artists chosen to perform carry the unique responsibility of setting the tone for the historic matchup.



The NFL deliberately selected performers who reflect this cultural exchange, ensuring the ceremony is as memorable as the game itself. The full gameday entertainment lineup, which includes a headline halftime act, begins with these vital ceremonial performances.

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Who's performing the national anthems before Colts vs Falcons in Berlin today? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Falcons</a> head coach Raheem Morris had a different approach to the controversial “snapgate” he sparked after the New England Patriots beat the Falcons in Week 9 of the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> season.&nbsp;



Moments before the two-minute warning, Michael Penix Jr. grounded the ball after his center heard a clap (Penix’s sign to get the snap) and passed him the ball. Atlanta ended up punting the ball and the Patriots secured a 24-23 win.&nbsp;



Morris was upset after the game, accusing the Patriots of manufacturing a snap.&nbsp;



“They heard something,” Morris said. “Obviously (Neuzil) did, that’s why he snapped it. There was no intent to say (the Patriots) did anything wrong. It was our fault. It was on us. We can’t snap the ball early, no matter what anyone does. That was just me being angry yesterday when somebody asked me what happened.”



<h2>Raheem Morris backtracks from comments on “snapgate”</h2>



A day after causing a stir with his comments, Morris shrugged off the situation, saying he doesn’t want to make something out of nothing.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251105_BUS_521262_raheem-morris-1024x576_39fc8018.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Raheem Morris" class="wp-image-420426" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Raheem Morrisof the Falcons</figcaption></figure>



“I don’t want to make it a ‘Snapgate,’ which I probably already did,” Morris said.&nbsp;



The Falcons dropped to 3-5 with this result, while the Patriots extended their winning streak to six games. Atlanta has been one of the most inconsistent teams in the league this season, and the Patriots worsened their situation, giving them their third consecutive loss.&nbsp;



They will travel to Berlin to face off against the Indianapolis Colts, one of the best squads in the league, on Sunday.&nbsp;

Raheem Morris backpedals from accusation against Patriots

Raheem Morris backpedals from accusation against Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-england-patriots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots’</a> Week 9 game against the Atlanta Falcons wasn’t exempt from controversy. The Pats held off a fourth-quarter comeback attempt from the Falcons on Sunday, stopping them at nine points to secure the 24-23 win.&nbsp;



During a second-and-10 at the Patriots’ 48-yard line ahead of the two-minute warning, Falcons’ center Ryan Neuzil heard claps, which is an indication to snap the ball to Michael Penix Jr. Neuzil did it, but Penix didn’t signal anything. The second-year quarterback grounded the ball and got penalized with 10 yards. A play later, the Falcons punted the ball, which marked the fate of the game.



Coach Raheem Morris accused the Patriots of “fabricating” that snap, noting that they clapped to confuse Neuzil.&nbsp;



“They did a nice job,” he said. “They simulated a snap. The ball came early, was snapped early. … that was when we got the intentional grounding. Nice job by those guys. Great situational football. Great play. … That’s why the ball was snapped early on Mike. He wasn’t ready for the snap.”



<h2>Mike Vrabel responds to Raheem Morris’ claims&nbsp;</h2>



While Morris made the case against the Patriots, Mike Vrabel responded. He wasn’t as serious as Atlanta’s coach and shrugged off the claims by saying it might have been the fans who confused the Falcons’ center.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251103_BUS_520592_raheem-morris-1024x576_6d29802e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Raheem Morris" class="wp-image-420426" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Raheem Morrisof the Falcons</figcaption></figure>



“I didn’t see anything. Like, is that fake? I don’t know… Clapgate… That was new. I didn’t see that… Maybe that’s a testament to our fans… They got loud,” he said.



Everything is done now, as the Patriots improved to 7-2, bringing their winning streak to six games. The Falcons are in the middle of a three-game skid and the picture doesn’t look that promising.&nbsp;

Mike Vrabel claps back at Raheem Morris’ accusations against Patriots

Mike Vrabel claps back at Raheem Morris' accusations against Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Falcons</a> dropped another game to an AFC East team on Sunday. The New England Patriots escaped with a 24-23 win at Gillette Stadium to improve to 7-2, while the Falcons are two games below the .500 mark (3-5), and in a complex position moving forward.&nbsp;



Michael Penix Jr. went 22 of 37 for 221 yards and three touchdowns, but it wasn’t enough to beat one of the top teams in the AFC. Drake Maye responded with 19 completions on 29 attempts for 259 yards and two touchdowns.



Drake London posted an impressive game, catching nine passes on 14 targets for 118 yards and three touchdowns, which marked the second multi-touchdown outing of his career.&nbsp;



<h2>Drake London disappointed after Falcons loss to Patriots&nbsp;</h2>



Despite playing a game for the ages, London wasn’t happy with the result. The veteran wide receiver described the loss in one word: “terrible.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251103_BUS_520583_raheem-morris-1024x576_7114d7d8.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Raheem Morris" class="wp-image-420426" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Raheem Morrisof the Falcons</figcaption></figure>



“Terrible. I do not feel good,” London said after the game. “We just lost the game. It’s a loss, so it’s going to hurt regardless,” he said. “It doesn’t matter if I had one catch or no catches or anything. It’s a loss, so I don’t care about any personal stats or any bulls*** like that.”&nbsp;



The Falcons have been one of the most inconsistent teams this season. One week, they can shut down Josh Allen, and the next, they struggle to play defense. They still have work to do, but at this point in the season, the situation doesn’t seem to be favorable.

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Drake London sends strong message after Falcons' 1-point loss to Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Falcons</a> face a crucial Week 9 matchup against the New England Patriots. After starting Kirk Cousins in Week 8, the team has now received a key update on Michael Penix Jr.’s availability to face the AFC East club.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-penix-jr" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Penix Jr.</a> recently suffered a knee injury that sidelined him in Week 8. The Falcons clearly missed his presence, as they fell to the Miami Dolphins at home in a surprising loss that featured a disappointing performance from Kirk Cousins.



Fortunately for Atlanta, Penix Jr. is back. The Falcons did not list any injury designation for him, and NFL Media reports that the former first-round pick is set to start against the Patriots in Week 9.



<h2>Penix Jr. is not the only one returning for the Falcons</h2>



The Week 8 loss to the Dolphins was not part of the Falcons’ plan. However, they had to play without Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London, two key pieces of their offense.



Drake London was limited in Wednesday’s practice due to a hip issue. Nevertheless, like Penix Jr., he carried no injury designation on the final report — meaning he’s good to go for Sunday’s game against Drake Maye and the Patriots.



London is coming off the best season of his NFL career. In 2024, he recorded 1,271 yards and nine touchdowns, but injuries have affected him this year, and he may struggle to match those numbers in 2025.


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In six games played so far, London has 469 receiving yards and two touchdowns. This season is especially important for him, as he’s seeking a contract extension after the Falcons exercised his fifth-year option for the 2026 campaign.

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Falcons receive key update on QB Michael Penix Jr. ahead of Week 9 matchup vs. Patriots - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> aren’t having the best 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> season. They have become one of the most inconsistent teams in the competition, beating Super Bowl contenders such as the Buffalo Bills (24-14) one week, only to lose against the one-win Miami Dolphins.&nbsp;



Atlanta will take on the inspired New England Patriots in Week 9. They are 1-1 against the AFC East and a win over Drake Maye and company would give them the edge over the division.&nbsp;



Michael Penix Jr. couldn’t play against the Dolphins, which helped Tua Tagovailoa and his team dominate against the Falcons. Penix missed the game due to a bone bruise in his left knee, but the situation is different ahead of the Patriots duel.&nbsp;



<h2>Raheem Morris is optimistic on his QB</h2>



Kirk Cousins went 21 of 31 for 173 yards against the Dolphins. The Falcons scored a single touchdown and lost 34-10 against Tagovailoa. Raheem Morris told reporters on Wednesday that Penix was in the building and the team is optimistic about his chances to play against the Patriots.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251030_BUS_518190_michael-penix-jr-1024x576_7de59a3f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Michael Penix Jr Atlanta Falcons" class="wp-image-406407" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Atlanta Falcons </figcaption></figure>



“Michael is in the building, obviously in meetings. … We’ll get a chance to get a feel for what he can do in practice, if he can do anything,” Morris said. “He feels better than he did last week. … So, I feel really good about him.”



Penix was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice session. In six games, he has gone 119 of 195 for five touchdowns against three interceptions. The Falcons are a question mark this season, and they need to start winning games before their playoff dreams vanish.&nbsp;

Raheem Morris shares positive update on Michael Penix Jr.

Raheem Morris shares positive update on Michael Penix Jr. - Bolavip US

The Atlanta Falcons are one of the most inconsistent teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> in the 2025 season. The NFC South team hit a new low in Week 8, as the Miami Dolphins beat them 34-10 as visitors.&nbsp;



After beating two potential contenders, the Washington Commanders (34-27) and the Buffalo Bills (24-14) in back-to-back games, the Falcons lost to the San Francisco 49ers (20-10) before Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins humbled them.



The challenge will be harder in Week 9, when they clash against the leader of the AFC East division, the New England Patriots (6-2). Atlanta entered this season looking like the biggest threat to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but they have failed to meet expectations.&nbsp;



<h2>Analyst flames Falcons over performance against Dolphins</h2>



The Week 8 performance raised a lot of eyebrows among the fanbase and analysts. Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports named the Falcons the second thing he disliked the most this past week, criticizing the offensive performance and going off on the defense.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251028_BUS_517077_Bijan-Robinson-1024x576_767412f0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Bijan Robinson #7 of the Atlanta Falcons" class="wp-image-353061" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Bijan Robinson #7 of the Atlanta Falcons</figcaption></figure>



“There was so much hope, it seemed, for the Atlanta Falcons after a 24-14 win over the Bills in Week 6. Since then, they’ve lost to the 49ers and the Dolphins. This week was especially damning. Kirk Cousins, in for the injured Michael Penix Jr., managed a paltry 173 passing yards. Bijan Robinson fumbled the ball without being touched. But the defense was somehow the biggest letdown. 



“One week after a dismal 31-6 loss to the Browns, the Dolphins had their second-best passing success rate and third-best rushing success rate this season. Tua Tagovailoa was sacked just once. And this was a Falcons defense that has been very good all season!” he wrote.



Atlanta will try to bounce back against the Patriots, who don’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon. Michael Penix Jr. could be back to bring a spark to the offense.&nbsp;

Falcons’ Week 8 performance turns heads for the wrong reasons

Falcons' Week 8 performance turns heads for the wrong reasons - Bolavip US

The Atlanta Falcons’ current 3–3 record means there’s no more room for error if they hope to stay in the playoff race. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-penix-jr">Michael Penix Jr.</a> and the Falcons host the Miami Dolphins at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and a win is a must to keep pace in the NFC South.


 


The biggest question for Raheem Morris heading into this crucial matchup revolved around who would ultimately start at quarterback, after the former Huskies signal-caller suffered a knee injury in last week’s game against the San Francisco 49ers.



According to the latest reports, Michael Penix Jr. has officially been ruled out by the coaching staff. As a result, veteran quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirk-cousins">Kirk Cousins</a> will take his place on the field, making his first start of the season.



“Falcons Kirk Cousins officially is starting Sunday in place of the injured Michael Penix, per sources. It will mark Cousins first start this season,” the insider Adam Schefter reported via his X official account.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251026_BUS_515551_michael-penix-jr-kirk-cousins-1024x576_281a6b0f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Kirk Cousins with Michael Penix Jr." class="wp-image-515561" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Penix Jr. #9 and Kirk Cousins #18 of the Atlanta Falcons.</figcaption></figure>



In addition, the Falcons elevated Easton Stick from the practice squad to serve as the backup quarterback. “They also elevated QB Easton Stick to the active roster for Sunday’s game to back up Kirk Cousins,” Schefter also added.


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<h2>What’s Michael Penix Jr.’s injury?</h2>



The Atlanta Falcons will be without their starting quarterback, Michael Penix Jr., for today’s matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Penix was officially ruled out as he deals with a bone bruise in his left knee, an injury sustained late in last week’s loss to the San Francisco 49ers. 



While the team initially listed him as questionable, head coach Raheem Morris indicated the decision was precautionary, stressing they would not put the young signal-caller “in harm’s way.” Veteran Kirk Cousins is set to make his first start of the season in Penix’s absence, stepping in to lead the offense at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.



<h2>Building strength at home</h2>



The Falcons find themselves at a crucial juncture in their <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season, sitting at 3-3, and Week 8 presents a definitive “must-win” scenario at Mercedes-Benz Stadium against the struggling Miami Dolphins. Despite the unfortunate absence of Michael Penix Jr., this game serves as a pivotal opportunity for Atlanta to assert dominance at home and get back over the .500 mark. 



The Dolphins, with a dismal 1-6 record and one of the league’s worst run defenses, are ripe for the taking. This sets the stage for a heavy dose of Bijan Robinson and the ground game to exploit Miami’s porous front, allowing the Falcons’ top-ranked pass defense to seal the victory and secure their fourth win of the campaign before a tough stretch of road games.

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Is Michael Penix Jr playing today for Falcons vs Dolphins in Week 8 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Falcons </a>have been one of the most inconsistent teams in the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL </a>season. The NFC South franchise is 3-3 after losing to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7.



All the good things they showed against the Buffalo Bills the prior week vanished against Mac Jones and Co. They will go against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, hoping to improve to 4-3 against one of the worst teams in the league.



Tua Tagovailoa’s season has been bad, and many fans are speculating about whether this season will be the quarterback’s last at Hard Rock Stadium. While Tagovailoa is struggling, the Falcons are still cautious about underestimating him.



<h2>Jeff Ulbrich pays respect to Tua Tagovailoa</h2>



Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has a strong opinion about Tagovailoa. Ulbrich remains wary of overlooking Tagovailoa, despite a struggling season in which the Alabama product has thrown 10 interceptions and the Dolphins are 27th in total yards.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251025_BUS_515163_tua-tagovailoa-2-1-1024x576_f690d169.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Tua Tagovailoa Miami Dolphins" class="wp-image-513610" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Tua Tagovailoa #1 of the Miami Dolphins.</figcaption></figure>



“I still see the same guy that I’ve been fearful of the last four years,” Ulbrich said. “He’s maybe one of the best rhythm throwers in the NFL still to date. And it’s coaching as well. His synchronized feet with the routes and the concept is just elite. When the back foot hits, the ball’s coming out. When you get the ball out like that, the players, as we’ve already mentioned, with the speed that they have, that can be explosive, that can be scary. So again, like I said, we’ve got to have our best week of prep.”



Tagovailoa’s career has gone south since the remarkable 2023 season. Many think concussions have taken a toll on him and the Dolphins’ numbers could be the biggest confirmation that the playmaker isn’t in the best position.&nbsp;

Falcons DC reluctant to understimate Dolphins despite rocky season

Falcons DC reluctant to understimate Dolphins despite rocky season - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirk-cousins">Kirk Cousins</a> is set to be the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/miami-dolphins">Miami Dolphins</a> in Week 8. According to a report by Adam Schefter, Michael Penix Jr. will not be ready to play due to a knee injury.



“Falcons QB Kirk Cousins is ‘highly likely’ to start Sunday’s game vs. the Dolphins as Michael Penix recovers from a bone bruise to his knee. Penix was limited at practice all week and Cousins worked with the first-team offense, gearing up to start Sunday.”



Throughout almost the entire offseason, Cousins was involved in trade rumors with teams such as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/pittsburgh-steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a> and the Minnesota Vikings. However, the Falcons never considered letting him go, and his salary was also a major obstacle to any potential move.



<h2>Are Falcons trading Kirk Cousins?</h2>



No. For now, the Falcons will not trade Kirk Cousins, although as the November 4 deadline approaches, there’s no certainty about what will happen. The veteran is the most sought-after quarterback on the market, but Atlanta and its owner, Arthur Blank, have preferred to keep a luxury backup with a very high salary.


 

 


<h2>How much money is Kirk Cousins making with Falcons?</h2>



Kirk Cousins signed a four-year, $180 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, with at least $90 million guaranteed. However, due to poor performances, the veteran was benched last season, giving Michael Penix Jr. an opportunity.


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Penix showed that he can be the quarterback of the future in Atlanta, leaving Cousins on the sidelines. However, for emergency situations like the one against Miami, Raheem Morris made it very clear that he wanted to keep Kirk as a top-tier backup.



<h2>Who will start at quarterback for Falcons against Dolphins?</h2>



Kirk Cousins will likely start at quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons against the Miami Dolphins, according to Schefter’s report. Michael Penix Jr. has not yet recovered from a bone bruise, and Raheem Morris would prefer to give him some rest time.

Falcons could reportedly start Kirk Cousins over Michael Penix Jr in Week 8 game against Dolphins

NFL News: Russell Wilson and Kirk Cousins could reportedly be involved in a blockbuster trade before deadline

Falcons could start Kirk Cousins in game against Dolphins - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Falcons </a>failed to build on their Week 6 win over the Buffalo Bills and succumbed to the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, looking lifeless in a 20-10 loss against the NFC West franchise.



The Falcons are now 3-3, and the questions they needed to answer entering the bye week are still in the air. Bijan Robinson was a shell of himself from the backfield, racking up just 40 yards on 14 carries.



He played better as a pass catcher, recording six receptions for 52 yards and one touchdown. On the other end, Christian McCaffrey took over with 24 carries for 129 yards and two touchdowns.



Additionally, he caught seven passes for 72 yards to round up a big night for the veteran running back. In contrast, Michael Penix Jr. didn’t play at the best level, struggling to get things going.



<h2>Michael Penix Jr. blamed for Falcons loss</h2>



After the game was over, the second-year quarterback was on the receiving end of criticism. ClutchPoints’ Enzo Flojo notes that Penix showed promise, but still has work to do.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251021_BUS_513222_michael-penix-jr-falcons-1024x576_537060df.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Michael Penix Jr. is the QB1 for the Falcons" class="wp-image-417475" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Michael Penix Jr. #9 of the Atlanta Falcons</figcaption></figure>



“Penix’s accuracy remains an issue,” Flojo wrote. “That is especially true on routine throws that should be automatic for a starter. Too many short passes died at receivers’ feet or sailed high on crossers, disrupting rhythm and stalling drives. It’s not just about mechanics; it’s about poise and decision-making. When pressured by San Francisco’s front seven, Penix reverted to forcing throws instead of taking safe checkdowns.”



The former Washington star went 21 of 38 for 241 yards and one touchdown. He was sacked twice and posted an 83.3 passer rating. The Falcons remain an intriguing team, but they must reach the next level soon.&nbsp;

Michael Penix Jr. under scrutiny after performance vs. 49ers - Bolavip US

The San Francisco 49ers are experiencing a resurgence in the NFL regular season following a disappointing stretch last year wherein the team failed to make the playoffs. With <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mac-jones" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mac Jones</a> stepping in as the starting quarterback in place of an injured Brock Purdy, the 49ers have achieved a commendable 5-2 record and are eager to maintain their momentum.



Following their victory over the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Atlanta Falcons</a>, Jones received encouraging news: having played his fifth game, he secured a motivational bonus. He unlocked a $400,000 incentive with his fourth win as the starting quarterback, marking a significant milestone in his career with the 49ers.



Despite varying contributions from the rest of the team, Jones has delivered remarkable performances. As the starting quarterback, he boasts a 4-1 record, with his sole setback occurring in Week 6 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, regarded as one of the top teams in the current regular season.



Although his Week 7 game against the Falcons wasn’t his most stellar outing—recording no passing touchdowns and only 159 passing yards—Jones achieved the incentive. With the challenges ahead, he is poised to continue his strong performances and provide the leadership necessary to secure more victories as the season progresses.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Mac Jones with a DART to Christian McCaffrey on 3rd &amp; 13. Finish the drive!! <a href="https://t.co/ddmsqc5uIq">pic.twitter.com/ddmsqc5uIq</a>— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) <a href="https://twitter.com/Coach_Yac/status/1980106509787996619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 20, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Jones’ incentive program expands</h2>



Having earned this $400,000 incentive, Jones is set to accrue additional rewards for each subsequent victory with the 49ers during the regular season. His contract stipulates that after surpassing the four-win mark, he will earn $100,000 for each win going forward with San Francisco, furnishing an ongoing motivation for continued success.


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This incentive underscores the exceptional start he has had in his tenure with the 49ers during the first part of the regular season. After a challenging season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Jones has found a fitting role in San Francisco following Purdy’s injury.



<h2>Teammate George Kittle praises Jones</h2>



Examining Jones’ statistics over the first five games of the regular season with the 49ers reveals his potential as the starting quarterback. He has thrown for 6 passing touchdowns, endured three interceptions, and led the league with a passing yard average of 313.0 yards per game.



In light of his performance, teammate George Kittle commented on Jones’ impact in the current <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> regular season. “He’s a goofball, and he connects with everybody… I love Mac Jones,” Kittle expressed to the media following the win against the Falcons.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68f63fc6370f2f9346100cb3" data-title="Can Jones sustain his performance with the 49ers this season?" data-options="3"></div>

NFL News: 49ers quarterback Mac Jones earns motivational incentive following Week 7 victory over Falcons

NFL News: 49ers quarterback Mac Jones earns motivational incentive following Week 7 victory over Falcons - Bolavip US

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