Falcons Hand 49ers First Loss as Michael Penix Jr Throws 3 TDs in 29-20 Upset

The Atlanta Falcons ended the San Francisco 49ers' undefeated start with a 29-20 victory, powered by quarterback Michael Penix Jr's three touchdown passes and a defense that forced four turnovers. Penix connected with Nick Muse, Kyle Pitts, and Drake London as Atlanta snapped a two-game losing streak. The 49ers, already thin at receiver, lost running back Christian McCaffrey for much of the first half to a thigh injury, and quarterback Brock Purdy threw two interceptions, including one to rookie linebacker Kendal Daniels, who also recovered a fumble by George Kittle. Atlanta scored 13 points off those takeaways, turning the game in their favor. The win improves the Falcons' record and reshapes the NFC playoff picture, while San Francisco must regroup after costly mistakes and injuries. With both teams eyeing postseason positioning, this result could prove pivotal later in the season.