Falcons Edge Raiders Amid Cousins Struggles

The Atlanta Falcons secured a narrow 15-9 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, but quarterback Kirk Cousins' performance left much to be desired, raising concerns about his future as the starter. Head coach Raheem Morris expressed dissatisfaction with Cousins, stating, 'He's got to play better,' after the veteran quarterback completed only 11 of 17 passes for 112 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. This win keeps the Falcons in the playoff hunt, trailing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers by a single game in the NFC South. Cousins has struggled throughout the season, leading the NFL with 16 interceptions and throwing eight in the last four games prior to this win. The emergence of rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr. as a first-round draft pick adds pressure on Cousins to improve, especially with a crucial matchup against the New York Giants on the horizon. As the season progresses, the Falcons' success may hinge on Cousins' ability to elevate his game to meet the team's playoff aspirations.