Prediction No. 1
Kirk Cousins will throw for 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns
Kirk Cousins has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in franchise history. He’s thrown for over 30 touchdowns three times and over 4,000 yards four times in his five seasons with the Vikings, and he’s a certain bet to hit those benchmarks again in 2023.
So why is this a bold prediction? It’s because you could make the argument for more.
For the first time in his career, Cousins will be operating with the same play-caller in back-to-back seasons. Although Cousins played well under Kevin O’Connell a year ago, he admitted that he didn’t feel comfortable in the new offense until a Week 13 loss to the Detroit Lions.
Beginning with that loss in Detroit, Cousins threw for 1,614 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions over the final five games of the regular season. If we project those numbers over a full season, Cousins would wind up with 5,487 yards passing, 37 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions, and with Justin Jefferson, a full season with T.J. Hockenson, and a contract year, why wouldn’t Cousins put up these numbers?
It’s because the Vikings have a commitment to efficiency.
In many cases, the Vikings were forced to throw as their offense went dark in the middle portion of the game. This has more to do with the running game, but it also affects the pass, as Cousins won’t have to put up massive numbers if the Vikings’ offense works properly.
This means that while the Vikings could take another step forward, Cousins could put up the same stats. If that helps them win more games, Cousins and the Vikings would gladly take it.