Falcons and Kirk Cousins: Struggles Under the Spotlight
As the NFL season intensifies, two narratives have emerged that demand scrutiny: the Atlanta Falcons' ongoing struggle to secure victories and Kirk Cousins' perplexing performance issues. Both stories unfold against the backdrop of expectations that have yet to be met, leaving fans and analysts questioning what lies ahead for these football powerhouses.
Atlanta Falcons: Searching for a Spark
The Atlanta Falcons, once a beacon of competitive spirit, have found themselves in the throes of adversity. In their last four games, the team has yet to taste victory, a winless streak that has positioned them precariously close to fading out of playoff contention. Pundits have noted that the Falcons' current struggles are encapsulated by their offensive performance, with the unit averaging a meager 14.25 points per game during this span.
Yet, not all is doom and gloom for the Falcons. Their defense, a unit that has often flown under the radar, has shown commendable resilience. Ranking eighth in Expected Points Added per play in non-garbage-time moments between Week 11 and Week 13, the Falcons' defensive squad has provided a glimmer of hope in otherwise challenging circumstances.
The Falcons' recent games have been nail-biters, with nine of their 13 contests entering the fourth quarter within a single score. These near misses underscore the team's potential to turn their fortunes around, though they remain a game behind the 7-6 Buccaneers in their division.
Kirk Cousins: A Rollercoaster Season
Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins, who entered the season under the weight of a $100 million fully guaranteed contract, has experienced a tumultuous stretch. In the past four games, Cousins' performances have drawn criticism, with the quarterback throwing eight interceptions and failing to register a single touchdown. Such stats are uncharacteristic for a quarterback of Cousins' caliber, raising questions about what might be hindering his performance.
Cousins’ troubles have been notably exacerbated in fourth quarters, where he has posted a 56 passer rating and completed merely 61.2% of his throws, averaging 6.20 yards per attempt. His customary accuracy in Atlanta stands in stark contrast to these numbers. Historically, Cousins holds an impressive 67% completion rate and 7.8 yards per attempt when playing in Atlanta, and similar proficiency is observed from his tenure in Minnesota — a completion rate of 67.8% with a 7.6-yard average.
What's Next for Atlanta and Cousins?
As the Falcons prepare for upcoming clashes against formidable opponents like the Raiders, Giants, Commanders, and Panthers, the team aims to capitalize on their defensive strengths while addressing offensive shortcomings. Fortunately, they have infused new talent into the roster, with Michael Penix Jr. stepping in as the No. 8 overall draft pick last April, potentially offering the offensive spark the team desperately needs.
For Cousins, the task is clear: he must recalibrate and stabilize his performances, particularly in clutch moments. Turning around his fourth-quarter woes could prove pivotal not only for his personal redemption but also for the aspirations of his team.
As the season progresses, both the Atlanta Falcons and Kirk Cousins have formidable challenges ahead but also possess the elements necessary for a turnaround. Teams and players with something to prove often generate the most compelling narratives in sports. With so much at stake, the football world will be watching closely to see if they can rise to the occasion.