Cousins ‘Highly Likely’ to Start for Falcons Against Dolphins
Atlanta Falcons Quarterback Kirk Cousins is anticipated to take the field as the starting quarterback against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, according to sources. The potential start comes as current starter Michael Penix Jr. continues to recover from a bone bruise sustained in the previous week’s game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Penix’s Injury and Limited Practice
Michael Penix Jr.suffered the injury during last week’s contest with the 49ers. He was limited in both practice sessions leading up to Sunday’s game and was officially listed as questionable on Friday. the Falcons coaching staff has been evaluating his condition closely to determine his availability.
Cousins’ Readiness and Team Confidence
Falcons Head Coach Raheem Morris expressed confidence in Cousins’ readiness, stating that the veteran quarterback has taken a “significant” number of reps throughout the week. Morris emphasized the team’s backup plan, while remaining optimistic about Penix’s potential to play through the discomfort.
“I’m really confident in our backup,” Morris stated on Friday.”We’re gonna give [Penix] every chance we can give him. The kid is tough. he’s a guy, he’s a stud.”
A Decade Removed: echoes of “You Like That?!”
The timing of Cousins’ potential return is notable, as Saturday marks the 10-year anniversary of a memorable victory for the quarterback. While playing for the Washington Commanders, Cousins delivered the iconic “You like that?!” after a dramatic win over the tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Looking back at Cousins’ 2023-2024 Season
Last season, Cousins played a key role in the Falcons’ early success, contributing to a 6-3 start. However,injuries to his right elbow and shoulder hampered his performance over a five-game stretch. Ultimately, Penix took over the starting role in Week 16.
Penix’s Rookie Season and Current Statistics
Since becoming the starter, Penix has a 4-5 record. This season, he has completed 61% of his passes for 1,409 yards, with five touchdowns and three interceptions. Currently, his QBR stands at 47.7, ranking 22nd in the league.
| Player | Games Started (2024-2025) | Completion Percentage | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions | QBR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Penix Jr. | 8 | 61% | 1,409 | 5 | 3 | 47.7 |
| Kirk Cousins | N/A (2024-2025) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
The Evolving Role of the Backup Quarterback
The increasing importance of a capable backup quarterback demonstrates a shift in NFL strategies. With players facing higher risks of injury, teams are investing more in depth at the position. A reliable backup can prevent a season from derailing due to unforeseen circumstances.
Did You Know? In 2023, there were a record number of starting quarterbacks injured, highlighting the critical need for quality backups across the league. NFL.com
Pro Tip: Fantasy football players should always be aware of quarterback depth charts, as a backup’s performance can significantly impact weekly outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions About NFL Quarterbacks
- What is a QBR? QBR (Quarterback Rating) is a statistic developed by ESPN that aims to evaluate quarterback performance based on contributions to scoring.
- How common are bone bruises in the NFL? Bone bruises are relatively common in the NFL, especially for players who take frequent hits, such as quarterbacks.
- What impact does a quarterback injury have on a team? A quarterback injury can have a significant impact on a team’s chances of success,as the position is considered the most critically important on the field.
- How important is it to have a capable backup quarterback? Having a capable backup is crucial, as they may be required to step in and perform at a high level if the starter is injured.
- What are the common types of injuries quarterbacks face? Common injuries include elbow and shoulder problems, concussions, and knee injuries like the one sustained by Penix.
What do you think of Cousins stepping in? And how vital is a strong backup quarterback in today’s NFL?
