4 takeaways from the play of Kirk Cousins vs. the Bengals in Week 1
By Dean Jones
Cousins got Osborn heavily involved
Although there was plenty of hype surrounding wide receiver K.J. Osborn throughout training camp, some questions remained regarding just how the wide receiver would be utilized by the Vikings when push came to shove.
As it turned out, he became a big part of the scheme in Week 1 and should remain so moving forward.
One thing that really stood out was how much Kirk Cousins trusted Osborn. The former fifth-round pick was given all he could handle in terms of targets with nine, which resulted in the player securing seven catches for 76 receiving yards.
Minnesota has been crying out for a true third wideout option behind Justin Jefferson and Adam Thielen. Especially considering Irv Smith Jr. is now on injured/reserve.
In Osborn, they might just have found the guy.
Cousins wasn’t afraid to target Osborn early and often. Probably due to the rapport they’ve built up during the preparation period.
If this is a trend that continues long into the season, then the Vikings might be able to claim some notable scalps along the way if other positional groups also progress accordingly.
Osborn can walk away from Week 1 knowing he couldn’t have done anymore to assist his team. And his performance will no doubt enhance Cousins’ faith in him considerably.