Falcons Snap Losing Streak, But Kirk Cousins’ Struggles Continue
LAS VEGAS — The Atlanta Falcons finally put an end to their four-game losing streak on Monday night, grinding out a 15-9 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. While the win keeps their NFC South title hopes alive, it also highlighted a glaring issue that’s been plaguing the team: inconsistent quarterback play.
Kirk Cousins, the Falcons’ high-profile offseason acquisition, had another underwhelming performance. He completed just 11 of 17 passes for 112 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. The Falcons leaned heavily on their rushing attack, with Bijan Robinson and Tyler Allgeier combining for 34 carries to carry the offensive load.
But here’s the troubling part: Cousins has now thrown nine interceptions in his last five games, with just one touchdown pass during that span. His 30-yard first-quarter lob to wide receiver Drake London was his first touchdown pass since Week 9. Back then, the Falcons were sitting pretty at 6-3 and in control of the NFC South. Now, at 7-7, they’re fighting to stay in the playoff picture.
Raheem Morris: “He’s Got to Play Better”
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris didn’t mince words when addressing Cousins’ struggles. “He’s got to play better and obviously, you got to go back, you got to get to look at everything,” Morris said after the game. “But he wants to play better. He’s got to play better. We’ve got to find a way to get him to play better.”
Despite the criticism, Morris stopped short of suggesting a quarterback change. It’s worth noting that the Falcons drafted quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in April, just weeks after signing Cousins to a massive four-year, $180 million free-agent deal. For now, it seems the team is sticking with Cousins, but the leash may be getting shorter.
Run-First Offense Raises Questions
Atlanta’s game plan against the Raiders was telling. The team was so focused on the run that Cousins didn’t throw a single pass on first down in the first half—a first in his 13-year NFL career. While the strategy helped secure the win, it also underscored the coaching staff’s lack of confidence in their quarterback’s ability to lead the offense.
Last week against the Minnesota Vikings, Cousins threw for 344 yards but also tossed two interceptions. The big plays that were there against Minnesota were nowhere to be found on Monday night. The Falcons converted just 4 of 13 third-down attempts, a clear sign that the offense is struggling to sustain drives.
Cousins Admits to Decision-Making Issues
When asked about his performance, Cousins acknowledged that decision-making has been his biggest issue. “So that you’re not putting the ball in harm’s way and not trying to be too aggressive,” Cousins said. “And I think that’s really the key. Protect the football.”
To his credit, Cousins avoided fumbles and threw fewer interceptions than in recent weeks. However, he still leads the league in both categories—16 interceptions and 12 fumbles (tied with Baker Mayfield). That’s not exactly the stat line you want from a quarterback earning $45 million per year.
When asked about Morris’ comments that he needs to play better, Cousins didn’t shy away from the criticism. “I don’t think that’s a mystery,” he said. “I think the last few weeks I would say I need to play better. Raheem says it, but it’s stating the obvious, and every week you kind of go through your process and you plan to go out there and play the very best you can. And so, this week will be no different.”
What’s Next for the Falcons?
With just three games left in the regular season, the Falcons are running out of time to figure things out. Their defense has been solid, and their running game is among the best in the league. But if Cousins can’t turn things around, Atlanta’s playoff hopes could slip away.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the Falcons’ current situation:
- Record: 7-7
- Division Standing: Still in the hunt for the NFC South title
- Key Issue: Quarterback play and turnovers
For now, the Falcons can celebrate snapping their losing streak. But if they want to make noise in the postseason, they’ll need more from their $180 million quarterback. The clock is ticking, and all eyes are on Kirk Cousins to deliver.
Originally Written by: Michael Rothstein
