Kirk Cousins has found his groove in the Atlanta Falcons’ offense.
This realization hit him in the second quarter of his record-breaking 36-30 overtime victory against Tampa Bay on Thursday night. Cousins felt more confident throwing to players like Drake London and Kyle Pitts, understanding that he could “let it rip.”
With this boost in confidence, Cousins set both a personal and team record by throwing for 509 yards and four touchdowns, including a game-winning 45-yard touchdown pass to KhaDarel Hodge.
This impressive performance came just a week after Atlanta’s offense failed to score a touchdown in a 26-24 win over New Orleans.
Cousins reflected on a drive in the second quarter when he anticipated where Kyle and Drake would be. “I was ahead of it a little bit in a good way and threw it decisively. I just haven’t been that decisive the first few weeks,” he said.
He also mentioned that being able to anticipate his receivers’ routes reminded him of his experience playing with familiar teammates over the years: “I can feel it starting to come.”
Falcons coach Raheem Morris kept his tone calm while describing Cousins’ performance as “OK,” adding, “We’re just scratching the surface with him.”
If that’s the case, it spells trouble for the NFC South, as the Falcons (3-2) have now tied for first place in the division with the Buccaneers.
