Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins inspired the team to a dramatic victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
It has been a slow start to the NFL season for Kirk Cousins, who entered the year with questions marks after a torn Achilles on the Minnesota Vikings in 2023.
The Falcons paid Cousins a $12.5 million base salary in Free Agency, and then decided to take quarterback Michael Penix Jr in the first round of the NFL Draft, a peculiar situation.
After four weeks, Cousins was the type of quarterback you would find on your fantasy football waiver wire, throwing for just four touchdowns in four games.
Then against Tampa Bay on a quick Thursday Night Football turnaround, Cousins exploded.
Kirk Cousins sets franchise record
Kirk Cousins threw for a franchise record 509 yards to lead the Atlanta Falcons to a 36-30 victory.
WR Drake London went toe to toe with Tampa veteran Mike Evans, both receivers with two touchdowns for their respective teams.
It was London’s best career performance, thanks to his new quarterback, who did not throw a single touchdown in week four against the Saints.
The Falcons moved to 3-2 for the season with the victory, and the numbers reflect what a huge leap it was for Cousins.
| Opponent | Yards | TDs |
| Steelers | 155 | 1 |
| Eagles | 241 | 2 |
| Chiefs | 230 | 1 |
| Saints | 238 | 0 |
| Buccaneers | 509 | 4 |
Kirk Cousins reaction to Falcons win
Kirk Cousins sent out a message on X following the Falcons win, writing: “What a night!”, with his yardage also a career high.
And there were celebratory scenes in the locker room following the victory, which could be catalyst for the Falcons season.
The NFL shared a video from inside the Falcons locker room in the aftermath of the 36-30 overtime win.
Cousins was seen sharing an embrace with Falcons owner Arthur Blank, before turning towards his teammates.
He uttered his famous three-word catchphrase, coined in Washington, “You like that”, before cheers erupted from the team, who began jumping around and spraying champagne.
A cameraman was soaked in the celebrations, with Cousins disappearing into the midst of the huddle.
The Falcons play in week six against the Carolina Panthers, who are 1-3 coming into the weekend.
