Redskins Breakdown: Defense saves the day in win vs. Cardinals

Passing Game: Kirk Cousins holds his own in solid outing

Kirk Cousins didn’t have a great game on Sunday. He was merely an efficient performer who was able to help lead his team to victory. He did a bit more than a game manager would in this contest.

From the beginning of the game, Cousins was throwing very sharp and accurate passes. He was able to scan the field and find open receivers, but he just wasn’t able to push the ball downfield very easily. The strong play of Patrick Peterson and Tramon Williams helped to limit what he was capable of.

Still, Cousins had some very nice throws. One of his best came in the second half, and here’s how I described it in my game recap for WalterFootball.com.

More from Riggo's Rag

• What will Emmanuel Forbes bring to the Washington Commanders?
• Highlighting the best Commanders 2023 NFL Draft betting props
• 3 late Commanders rumors drawing buzz ahead of the 2023 NFL Draft
• 4 bold predictions for the Commanders 2023 NFL Draft
• Commanders News: Chase Young trade, draft day, CB riser and Sam Howell

"One of Cousins’ best plays came when he was scrambling to his right and he had to make a read to find an open receiver. He scanned the field and lofted a quick pass to Vernon Davis back over the middle to get the first down. It’s amazing that he was able to see Davis, and that vision will allow Cousins another asset in case he hits the open market this offseason."

Conversely, Cousins also had a very bad pass in the red zone. He tried to loft a ball to the corner of the end zone, but he didn’t do enough to get it over Tramon Williams. Williams was nearly able to make a one-handed pick but the pass was just a bit too high for him. Cousins shouldn’t have made such a risky throw given that the team was already virtually guaranteed to score. That’s the type of mistake that he needs to avoid.

Overall, Cousins had a solid day. He wasn’t great, he wasn’t bad. He was just solid. If the Redskins want to be guaranteed to win more, he’ll have to play better. He did just enough to win this Sunday. Perhaps with a better supporting cast, his play will improve.