Minimalistic approach works best with Cousins
Through their first three games this season, the Vikings are learning that less is more when it comes to Kirk Cousins throwing the ball.
During Minnesota’s two wins this year, Cousins hasn’t attempted more than 21 passes. But in the Vikings loss last week, the quarterback finished the day with 32 passing attempts.
These results shouldn’t come as a surprise though. Since 2015, Cousins’ teams are 6-1 when he attempts 25 passes or less in a game and 19-29-2 when he finishes with 30 or more pass attempts.
Minnesota has actually lost their last five games when Cousins attempts at least 30 passes. With the way the Vikings are built, having their quarterback throw a high amount of pass attempts just isn’t a great recipe for success.
Minnesota is finally figuring this out in 2019 and it’s resulting in the team experiencing great results. Cousins is a talented quarterback, but he’s not the type of passer that can just put an entire offense on his back.
Because of this, the Vikings must continue to have their offense center around their rushing attack for the remainder of the season if they want to be successful.