Kirk Cousins, currently experiencing one of the most challenging phases of his career, is set to return to Minnesota this weekend, a place he once called home for six years. His recent performance, marked by an 0-6 TD-INT ratio over the last three games, has coincided with the Falcons’ three-game losing streak, putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy.
Cousins’ struggles have resulted in the Falcons scoring only 36 points over their last three games, a slump that has allowed the Buccaneers to tighten the NFC South race. As the Falcons aim for a playoff spot, they desperately need Cousins to recover his form, especially in the familiar setting of Minnesota’s stadium, which was previously filled with his supporters.
Despite the performance dip, the Falcons remain committed to Cousins, with head coach Raheem Morris expressing unwavering confidence in their quarterback. “He is built for this and he’s ready to go,” Morris stated, emphasizing Cousins’ capability as an elite processor with a comprehensive skill set. The Falcons, having invested $180 million over four years in Cousins, anticipate his resurgence.
Minnesota, familiar with Cousins’ capabilities from his tenure leading them to two playoff berths, is also wary of underestimating him. When Cousins last played for the Vikings, he was delivering some of his best performances, even building an MVP case before an injury cut his season short. Vikings’ defensive coordinator Brian Flores acknowledges Cousins’ potential, dismissing the recent ‘tough game’ narrative and recognizing his skills as a formidable quarterback.
Flores, known for his defensive strategy, anticipates a strong challenge from Cousins, a sentiment echoed by the quarterback’s past success against another aggressive coach, Tampa Bay’s Todd Bowles. Cousins, who amassed substantial passing yards and touchdowns in encounters with Bowles’ Buccaneers, embodies the spirit of resilience. “He’s a bounce-back type of guy,” Flores remarked, preparing for the best version of Cousins.
Returning to Minnesota, Cousins anticipates a charged atmosphere, expecting Vikings fans to create a hostile environment. However, he is driven by the mantra that ‘tough times don’t last, tough people do,’ focusing on driving the Falcons to a much-needed victory against a formidable 10-2 Vikings team embroiled in a closely contested NFC North race.
Kirk Cousins’ return to Minnesota is more than just another game; it’s a pivotal moment where he must demonstrate resilience and skill to overcome recent adversities. As he confronts the challenge head-on, both his and the Falcons’ season could hinge on this performance, underscoring the critical nature of his mission to ‘get back up off the mat.’
Source: NFL
