Falcons' Kirk Cousins struggles in first start amid key injuries

Kirk Cousins started for the Atlanta Falcons in Week 8 due to Michael Penix Jr.'s knee injury and the absence of top receiver Drake London. Cousins struggled in the 34-10 loss to the Miami Dolphins, completing 21 of 31 passes for 173 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions, and the Falcons' offense was described as brutal. Falcons coach Raheem Morris acknowledged the team's poor overall performance, emphasizing the need for collective improvement. While Cousins felt comfortable managing the game, his performance highlighted the team's struggles without Penix and London. The Falcons face uncertainty about their quarterback situation, with concerns that Cousins' start could create locker room tensions and impact trade value as the trade deadline approaches. Analysts suggest that an average game from Cousins might be the best outcome to avoid a quarterback controversy and maintain team focus for upcoming games against the Patriots and Colts.