The Falcons have an interesting dynamic at quarterback, and it could be Kirk Cousins’ last opportunity to cement himself as the starter this weekend in Minnesota.
The veteran returns to face his former team, with a tall task ahead of him. Brian Flores and this Vikings defense is one of the best in the league, known for their excessive blitzing, which presents a challenging wrinkle for a signal caller who has struggled against pressure.
Raheem Morris has a difficult decision looming if Cousins turns in another stinker. I don’t even think it’ll be a question if the Falcons lose because of Cousins. In fact, a rival general manager told Jason La Canfora that Morris wouldn’t have a choice.
“It’s a big deal when you make that change,” said the GM. “You’re doing more than just changing the quarterback; you are sending a signal to your locker room. Especially after what they just paid to get him there. It doesn’t sound like they’re there yet. But if he plays another game like he did last week, they’re not going to have a choice. They’re going to have to try something else.”
Against the Broncos, the entire offense was pathetic. Against the Saints, the offense moved the ball but stalled in the red zone, with Younghoe Koo uncharacteristically missing three field goals. However, against the Chargers, a lot can be blamed on Kirk Cousins.
He had three of the worst interceptions I’ve ever seen, one in the flats and one in the endzone, in particular. Those are throws you’d expect from a Day 2 rookie, not a 13-year starter. The Falcons need more out of Cousins, but some think he doesn’t have anymore to give.
“He still doesn’t look right,” said one scout to La Canfora. “There’s no juice on his throws. Everything is coming from his arm. He’s not pushing off normally.”
NFL analyst Brian Baldinger said: “The arm isn’t the same arm anymore. The ball is dying on him.”
That’s some pretty damning analysis from respected people. Of course, Kirk Cousins still has a chance to seize this opportunity to cement the Falcons atop the division and his place as the starter. There’s a lot on the line for the Falcons this Sunday.
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Photographer: David J. Griffin/Icon Sportswire
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