5 big indicators of a successful season for the Vikings in 2022

Kirk Cousins goes 2-0 in Primetime

Kirk Cousins has enjoyed efficient numbers during his time in purple. However, he faces a lot of criticism for coming up short in clutch moments and not winning games in primetime. However, Cousins has a chance to rewrite his narrative in Minnesota this year.

An incredibly clutch performance in New Orleans saw Cousins lead the Vikings over the Saints in the wild-card round of the playoffs back in 2019. Cousins made two huge throws in overtime in that matchup. One went to wide receiver Adam Thielen to get Minnesota inside the New Orleans’ 10-yard line, and the other to tight end Kyle Rudolph for the win.

One thing Cousins has not done much in purple, or over his NFL career, is win primetime games. The Vikings play in two this year. One will take place in Week 2 on Monday, September 19th, in Philadelphia to take on the Eagles and Minnesota’s other primetime contest is at home in Week 12 against the New England Patriots on Thanksgiving.

Should Cousins lead the Vikings to victory in each of their primetime contests this season, it will fuel the fire of his supporters going into the 2023 offseason. Cousins is coming off the heels of a solid 2021 campaign that saw him throw for 4,221 yards and 33 touchdowns to only seven interceptions. All the signs point to him replicating a 30-plus touchdown season in 2022 while having less than 10 interceptions again.

Having an offensive-minded head coach now in Kevin O’Connell, another year of getting comfortable with weapons like Justin Jefferson, Dalvin Cook, and Adam Thielen, and players like Irv Smith Jr. coming back will aid Cousins in continuing his efficient ways in 2022. Posting an undefeated primetime record will allow Minnesota fans to head into the offseason with satisfaction.