Kirk Cousins and the Falcons Fall to the Vikings, 42-21, in Minnesota

Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons couldn’t overcome his former team, the Minnesota Vikings, in a 42-21 loss on Sunday. Despite the defeat, the Falcons showcased an explosive offense and defensive highlights that continue to demonstrate their potential this season.

Offensive Explosion Falls Short

The Falcons tallied an impressive 496 yards of total offense, including 338 passing yards and 158 rushing yards. This marked the fourth game this season where Atlanta exceeded 400 total yards. It was also their fifth game surpassing 150 rushing yards, a testament to the team’s balanced offensive attack.

The 496 yards represent the Falcons’ second-highest offensive output this season, trailing only their 550-yard performance in Week 5 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Atlanta also scored a rare opening-drive touchdown, only the second team this season to do so against Minnesota.

Defensive Standouts

Defensively, the Falcons recorded four sacks, marking the first time since 2019 that the team has achieved four or more sacks in consecutive games. Key players across the defensive line and linebacking corps made their presence felt throughout the game.

Player Highlights

•RB Bijan Robinson continued his stellar rookie season, recording his eighth rushing touchdown on a 13-yard run in the third quarter. Robinson totaled 101 yards from scrimmage, marking his ninth game this season surpassing the 100-yard mark—second most in the NFL.

•WR Darnell Mooney delivered a career performance, notching 142 receiving yards on six receptions, including three catches of over 20 yards. This marked Mooney’s second 100-yard game of the season and the sixth of his career.

•WR Ray-Ray McCloud III set a career-high with 98 receiving yards on eight receptions, following up his 95-yard performance last week against the Chargers.

•RB Tyler Allgeier scored on a six-yard rush during the opening drive, finishing with nine carries for 63 yards and averaging an impressive 7.0 yards per carry.

•DL Eddie Goldman, OLB Arnold Ebiketie, OLB Matthew Judon, and ILB Kaden Elliss each recorded sacks, with Elliss also leading the team in tackles for the seventh time this season.

Consistency in Special Teams

K Younghoe Koo was perfect on the afternoon, hitting both of his field goal attempts from 21 and 29 yards.

Looking Ahead

Next up, the Dirty Birds are heading to Vegas baby to face the Raiders for Monday Night Football, December 16. The primetime matchup presents an opportunity for Atlanta to bounce back and maintain their offensive momentum.

Despite the loss, Atlanta’s offense continues to showcase its potential, with young stars like Bijan Robinson and Darnell Mooney leading the charge. As the team works to tighten up their defense and capitalize on their offensive production, the Falcons remain a competitive force as the season progresses.