The Falcons are preparing for the Vikings in what could be a pivotal moment in Kirk Cousins’ career as the noise grows for Michael Penix Jr. to get the call.
Minnesota never seemed like the right moment for Penix to take over, but the time is coming. With the rookie “lightning it up” in Falcons practice, the pressure is on Cousins, as The Athletic’s Jeff Howe highlights.
“I’ve been told Penix has been lighting it up in practice, so a switch would be justified if they felt like making the move. Under no circumstances would I start Penix against the Vikings, but the remaining games against the Raiders, Giants, Commanders and Panthers would be appealing.”
Mike Sando doesn’t even think the Falcons have to see Kirk Cousins struggle this weekend to turn to Michael Penix. The Athletic pundit thinks there should be a change if the club falls to the Vikings.
“The Falcons should play Penix for the final four games if Cousins plays poorly and/or the team loses at Minnesota. They’ll have an extra day to get Penix ready because they follow their game at Minnesota with a Monday night visit to Las Vegas in Week 15. Atlanta then finishes with the Giants, Commanders and Panthers.”
I don’t disagree with the sentiment that the Falcons are in a must-win situation, but to say Cousins should be benched if the club loses, regardless of his individual performance, is just not based in reality. What kind of thinking is that?
However, if Kirk Cousins throws out another stinker, or worse, he’s the cause of the Falcons’ loss like he was against the Chargers, we will be having a completely different conversation.
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Photographer: Rich von Biberstein/Icon Sportswire
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