Las Vegas trailed 23-14 when they headed into the locker room at halftime. The Raiders struggled to keep the Jets' offense off the field. But rather than force passes or attempting to make a big play each time he was under center, Kirk Cousins took patience with himself and his teammates.
Raiders Week 8 Player of the game: QB Kirk Cousins
The 15-year veteran started the second half by completing a two-yard pass to Brock Bowers for a touchdown, cutting the Raiders' deficit to two points. Although the Jets went ahead again and pushed the lead to 30-21, Cousins didn't let the game slip away.
What stood out most about Cousins' performance was how comfortable he looked while running Klint Kubiak's offense under extreme pressure. He consistently made smart decisions, avoided turnovers, and gave his
receivers chances to create plays. The veteran quarterback made a 1-yard rushing touchdown with just over four minutes left in the third quarter. It was exactly what the Raiders needed.
Cousins' most significant play came in the fourth quarter, when the Raiders trailed 30-28. After Ashton Jeanty's 45-yard catch set up the score, he found Jalen Nailor for a two-yard touchdown. This score put the Raiders ahead 35-30, and they didn't lose the lead again. The connection between Cousins and Bowers was also crucial, with the tight end having seven catches for 92 yards and scoring twice.
The Las Vegas Raiders needed someone to end their four-game losing streak, and Kirk Cousins delivered. It may have been his best performance of the year as the veteran quarterback led the Raiders to an exciting 38-33 comeback win over the New York Jets on Sunday. He completed 19 of 26 passes for 247 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions; he also scored on a run. Most importantly, Cousins showed the leadership and calm the Raiders needed after their initial struggles.
Las Vegas still has many issues to address, especially on defense. However, the accurate quarterback played well and led the Raiders to a 4-4 record. It wasn't a showcase of high-flying throws or spectacular plays; it was a display of execution at key moments.
This article originally appeared on Raiders Wire: Raiders Week 8 player of the game vs Jets
