4 takeaways from the play of Kirk Cousins vs. the Panthers in Week 6
By Dean Jones
Cousins was protected extremely well
Much has been made of the Panthers and their vaunted defensive front this season. They took the league by storm over the first three games, and although things haven’t been as easy since then, it still represented a big challenge for the Vikings from the outside looking in.
However, this offensive line is a very different unit to years gone by.
Boosted by a first start for rookie Christian Darrisaw, the Vikings’ protection was almost flawless at the Panthers, with Kirk Cousins pressured just four times on 49 dropbacks, according to ESPN Stats.
This represents just eight percent of throws. Something that enabled Cousins to get in a rhythm and go through his progressions efficiently.
From @ESPNStatsInfo: The Panthers defense pressured Kirk Cousins on 4 of his 49 dropbacks (8%). Cousins was not pressured on any of his 6 dropbacks in OT.
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) October 17, 2021
Solid production in front of Cousins has been scarce since the signal-caller arrived in Minnesota. But now with their first-round pick is solidifying the left tackle position, this looks like a competent unit that can make a significant difference in 2021 and beyond.
Acquiring players who can get open hasn’t ever been a problem for the Vikings. It’s coming up with the right formula on the offensive line to give Cousins a level of confidence to stay in the pocket and produce the goods.
Judging by this latest showing at Bank of America Stadium, those in power within the organization may have gotten it right at long last.