The Atlanta Falcons ended their five-game losing streak with a win against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday evening. The team had not secured a victory since Week 6, facing challenges including two overtime losses and offensive struggles, particularly with third-down conversions. The situation worsened when quarterback Michael Penix Jr. suffered his third season-ending knee injury in five years and is expected to undergo reconstructive surgery soon in Los Angeles.
With Penix sidelined, the Falcons turned to veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins. Since joining Atlanta, Cousins has delivered mixed performances, but on Sunday he provided the consistency the team needed. He completed 16 of 23 passes and threw a long touchdown pass to Darnell Mooney in the fourth quarter that helped secure the win. Despite one interception—on a pass that hit Kyle Pitts in the hands—Cousins generally protected the ball and moved the offense efficiently.
Head coach Raheem Morris commented after the game that the Falcons “accommodated” Cousins by using more play-action and under-center formations. Morris emphasized that what mattered most was how Cousins managed those adjustments: “Cousins didn’t get in the way of the game. He wasn’t a wrinkle that caused ripple effects throughout four quarters.”
Atlanta’s defense also played a significant role in limiting New Orleans’ scoring opportunities. In recognition of key contributions, Morris handed out game balls for the first time since Week 6, highlighting inside linebacker Divine Deablo’s return from injured reserve and kicker Zane Gonzalez’s two field goals beyond 50 yards.
Morris addressed Cousins directly after the win: “Our quarterback,” he said as he tossed him a game ball.
As Atlanta moves forward through the rest of 2025 with Cousins at quarterback, questions remain about what this means for their future once Penix recovers. For now, however, Cousins’ steady performance was enough to guide them back into the win column.
