What were some major observations from the performance of Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins at the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 2?
After an impressive opening day display from Kirk Cousins and the Minnesota Vikings, there was a chance to make another huge statement on the national stage in Week 2. The Philadelphia Eagles are expected to make a deep postseason run in 2022 after a sensational offseason of recruitment, with the hostile Lincoln Financial Field atmosphere something else that the team had to counteract.
Much has been made about Cousins and his inability to perform under the glaring spotlight of Monday Night Football. Something that proved evident once again as the Vikings fell to a demoralizing 24-7 loss on the road.
It’s still early in the season, so there is plenty of time to bounce back. However, this was another indicator of Minnesota only getting so far with Cousins under center.
With that being said, here are four major observations from the performance of Cousins in Philadelphia.
Major Observation No. 1
Kirk Cousins got in a hole early
If the Vikings wanted to impose themselves early on the road, they were out of luck. The Eagles came out all guns blazing on both sides of the football, restricting Cousins and also putting up almost 350 combined yards over the opening two quarters.
This was a hole Minnesota couldn’t get out of. And in terms of Cousins, we’ve seen on countless occasions what can occur when the former Michigan State standout has to force the issue.
Not dwelling on this too much would be prudent. Cousins wasn’t helped by the defense or a crucial drop from Irv Smith Jr., but they were just two contributing factors to the overall outcome.