Kirk Cousins was able to beat out Robert Griffin III during training camp and preseason action and will start tomorrow against the Miami Dolphins. It was a big move by Washington Redskins head coach Jay Gruden, but he truly believes that Cousins gives the Redskins the best opportunity to win football games.
While it is a big decision and many agree with it, what can the Redskins and their fans expect from Cousins in Week 1?
First of all, there is no question that the Washington offense has some weapons for Cousins to use. DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon are both quality wide receivers who are more than capable of making plays for their quarterback. Griffin made some plays with both of them as well, but the offensive line has to give Cousins time in the pocket.
Cousins isn’t the type of quarterback to extend plays like Griffin could, which might be an issue for him. Washington definitely doesn’t have a great offensive line and Miami will do everything they can to take advantage of that fact.
Alfred Morris is going to take some pressure off of Cousins with his ability to pick up consistent yardage on the ground. Matt Jones could see some time at the running back position as well, which would be a good idea for the Redskins. Both of those players can tear up the Miami defense and will have to in order to help the passing game.
There is no question that Cousins has a capable NFL arm. He has excellent arm strength and is very accurate as well. Over the past couple of years, he simply hasn’t had the confidence when he has been on the field to make the throws that the Redskins needed him to make.
At 27 years old, Cousins is heading into his fourth NFL season and has enough experience to make the leap that the Redskins are obviously expecting.
Simply taking care of the football and making easy passes is what the former Michigan State star must do this week. Miami has a decent secondary, but the Redskins are going to be able to shred their secondary with the weapons that they have as long as they make smart plays and take care of the football.
Predicting Cousins’ numbers isn’t an easy task, but there is no question that he should have a big week. His potential is through the roof and it is time that he finally shows what he is capable of doing. Washington is giving him yet another chance to prove that he has the talent to be an NFL starter and he isn’t going to let them down.
Kirk Cousins Week 1 Prediction: 300 Yards, 3 TD’s, 0 INT’s
