The Minnesota Vikings were looking for consistent quarterback play to complement a defense capable of supporting a championship contender. After Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz did not provide the steadiness the team wanted, Minnesota traded a 2027 third-round pick to the Las Vegas Raiders for Kirk Cousins.
Cousins made an encouraging first start after joining the team on Nov. 10. In the Vikings’ 30-10 win over the Green Bay Packers, he completed 21 of 31 passes for 210 yards, two touchdowns and one interception, finishing with a 94.8 passer rating. With only a few days to learn the offense before facing Green Bay, he helped Minnesota move the ball and score against the Packers’ defense.
After the game, Cousins credited the Vikings’ defense for repeatedly giving the offense possession. He also praised the coaching staff for preparing a plan that helped him feel comfortable and his teammates for making plays. “It’s a fun day to get a win,” he said.
## Vikings Overcame a Short Week and Midweek Changes
Minnesota entered the game after a Nov. 9 loss to the Buffalo Bills and had a short week of preparation. Cousins also joined the team during the week, adding another challenge ahead of the matchup.
“It’s not easy,” Cousins said, noting the short turnaround after the team’s Monday night game. He credited the defense, special teams, coaching staff and offensive teammates, adding that he could not have done it alone.
## Cousins’ Arrival Brings Noticeable Change to the Offense
Former NFL player Ryan Clark said the Vikings’ offense looked markedly different against Green Bay than it had against Buffalo. Clark described the improvement as striking, pointing to Minnesota’s 17 first-half points and saying the offense looked far more polished.
Former NFL running back Le’Veon Bell also praised the move, suggesting Cousins’ arrival could change the Vikings’ season. Bell said Minnesota might have become the best team in football after the quarterback’s addition.
