4 major observations from Kirk Cousins performance vs. the Commanders

Kirk Cousins showed resolve

Kirk Cousins was only sacked twice at the Washington Commanders. However, the quarterback was under significant duress for almost the entire contest, which is something he’d not experienced to this degree in 2022.

The Minnesota Vikings are getting some improved production from their offensive line this season. This was not their best day at the office against a stout Washington defensive front, so Cousins deserves a tremendous amount of credit for demonstrating enough resolve to overcome adversity and propel his team to a seventh triumph in eight contests.

It wasn’t pretty. Not by any stretch of the imagination.

But Cousins and the Vikings are finding different ways to win close games. This steely determination will stand the former Michigan State standout in good stead when business picks up later in the campaign.

Cousins was on his back a lot as the protection in front of him struggled to cope with Washington’s fearsome pass rush. The veteran has folded in situations like this in the past, so seeing the signal-caller dust himself off and take things play-by-play was hugely encouraging.

There is something different about Cousins through the first half of 2022. More will be needed if the Vikings want to legitimately contend, but they can relax safe in the knowledge their quarterback is going to fight every step of the way.