Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​is used to criticism at this point in his career. No matter what the numbers or talent around him suggest, the quarterback is an easy target. He didn’t come into the league with the draft pedigree of Trevor Lawrence or Justin Herbert. Cousins ​​has always been doubted and overlooked throughout his career.

Leaving Minnesota for Atlanta hasn’t changed that, or how Cousins ​​is discussed in the sports media, but Monday’s final drive gave the world a glimpse of his ability and left pundits with no choice but to praise the veteran quarterback for doing exactly what many thought was impossible.

The Atlanta Falcons’ underdog victory over the Eagles was a defining moment for the season and for Kirk Cousins. It put an end to the call for Penix and any speculation that his career might be over. It was clear that Kirk’s skills are still there, but it’s simply rust and learning a new offense that is keeping the quarterback from the expected results.

His primetime wins have changed the conversation, and that could continue in Week 3. If Cousins ​​pulls off the impossible and beats Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs, giving the quarterback back-to-back primetime wins against playoff teams, the debate and story surrounding Penix and Kirk’s primetime woes will be over.

Beating the Chiefs on the national stage is not only proof that the Falcons are a serious playoff contender, but also a reminder of how underrated Kirk Cousins ​​has always been. As unlikely as the upset may be, the same thing was said before the Eagles game. Perhaps Cousins ​​can pull off one more prime-time magic, ending all calls for Penix this season and silencing a league that has constantly doubted him.