4 major takeaways from Kirk Cousins performance vs. Lions in Week 3

Kirk Cousins came through in the clutch

After last weekend’s struggles against the Philadelphia Eagles, one could forgive fans for having a sense of pessimism when the Vikings were in a hole late in the game. Kirk Cousins was the man tasked with getting his team over the hump with Dalvin Cook on the sidelines, which he accomplished with composure and conviction in equal measure.

Cousins was not phased by the moment, coming through in the clutch with a superb pass to wide receiver K.J. Osborn for the game’s deciding score. Considering what transpired at Lincoln Financial Field, it represents a massive confidence boost for the veteran moving forward.

Coming through in critical times such as this has always been a knock on Cousins. There are times when he’s come back from the brink, and when one looks back on Minnesota’s 2022 season, this might be a defining moment when it’s all said and done.

The Vikings sit atop the NFC North after three games, but the margin for error is slim with both the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears boasting 2-1 records. It already looks like a tight race for the divisional crown, so Minnesota needs Cousins in this sort of form for the campaign’s entirety.

Overall, it’s been decent from Cousins. Sunday’s game in London against the New Orleans Saints is the next test and taking things week-to-week remains the objective for a team that fancies their chances in 2022.