4 takeaways from the play of Kirk Cousins vs. the Browns in Week 4

What were the big takeaways from Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins in Week 5 against the Cleveland Browns?

Kirk Cousins has found himself as a lively outsider for NFL MVP consideration after an exceptional start to the 2021 season, The Minnesota Vikings may not have gotten the results expected, but few would argue the production from their signal-caller has been nothing short of outstanding.

Sunday’s home game against the Cleveland Browns was arguably the sternest test of Cousins‘ credentials so far. Former Vikings offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski has the AFC North club poised for a potential Super Bowl challenge, with a strong running game and a defensive front that strikes fear into every opponent.

It was a strange game of football, there’s no getting away from that. But at the end of the day, the Vikings lost and now sit at 1-3 through the first four weeks of the season.

Another one for Minnesota to take on the chin. And here are four key takeaways from the performance of Cousins in Week 4.

Takeaway No. 1

Cousins got the Vikings rolling early

Things looked promising for Cousins and the Vikings right out of the gate. Unfortunately, this didn’t transition to the remainder of the contest.

The quarterback appeared to be primed for another prolific afternoon under center on a first-quarter drive that eventually ended with a touchdown strike to stud wide receiver, Justin Jefferson. As it turned out, this would be Minnesota’s only score of the contest.

Simply put, nobody would have predicted that judging by early efforts. But as stated previously, it was a really odd game.