The Raiders can secure victories with Kirk Cousins replicating his recent performance. However, they need to consider just how many wins that strategy could yield.
There’s also the question of how much of Klint Kubiak’s offensive scheme can be utilized if their quarterback struggles to pose a deep threat against defenses.
This dilemma lies at the heart of an otherwise hopeful season opener and may dictate how swiftly Fernando Mendoza transitions from the sidelines to the huddle.
Perhaps even sooner than anticipated.
Cousins tossed three touchdown passes in the game against the Dolphins, reminding us that factors like experience and anticipation really do still matter.
Yet, there’s another statistic that warrants scrutiny.
On throws that traveled 10 yards or more down the field, Cousins completed only one of seven attempts for a mere 21 yards along with two interceptions.
One completion. Two interceptions.
This doesn’t negate the good he did, but it does invite questions that the Raiders can’t ignore just because they won.
How much respect can Cousins still command from opposing defenses?
When asked about the necessity of an improved downfield passing game, Kubiak needed just one word to respond: “Yes.”
The need is evident; whether Cousins can fulfill it remains a separate issue.
If he can’t, how long before Mendoza, who is significantly younger and has a stronger arm, gets his chance?
Cousins excelled in short-range passing, completing 20 of 22 attempts for 139 yards and all three touchdowns. Those statistics indicate success, and there’s nothing wrong with efficiently reaching the end zone.
Kubiak can certainly strategize around those strengths. His offense excels at creating space and favorable matchups, turning short throws into meaningful gains.
Players like Ashton Jeanty and Michael Mayer excel in this format. Eventually, Brock Bowers will join this mix.
However, there’s a key difference between deliberately targeting short passes and being left with few options beyond that due to struggles in the longer game.
Defensive coordinators are paid to notice this. If they realize Cousins can’t consistently challenge them downfield, they’ll tighten their coverage. Safeties will inch closer, and linebackers will be more aggressive against shorter routes, making those easy completions riskier.
The impact will be felt beyond just the passing game.
Jeanty needs space to operate.
A defense that plays close to the line without fear of a deep threat can make things tough for him. The easy completions that worked for the Raiders might not be sustainable if defenders are less likely to retreat.
The Raiders don’t need Cousins to throw deep on every play.
They just need to ensure there are enough credible options beyond short routes to keep the opponents guessing.
“Chunk it deep,” Kubiak emphasized.
This includes intermediate throws made before defenders can close in. Arm strength isn’t only about distance; it’s also about timing—getting the ball into tight spaces before they vanish.
At 38, Cousins seems to have a tighter margin for error than before.
Seven pass attempts don’t provide a complete picture. The breakdown involves factors like protection, receiver separation, timing, and decision-making before attributing all failures to decreased velocity.
However, his age cements the significance of the question.
And the results merit careful observation.
It’s also worth noting the Raiders played without Bowers. His absence undoubtedly affects the offensive dynamics, and Cousins should be credited for what he was missing. Bowers’ presence could easily transform a regular completion into a bigger play.
When he returns, it might highlight a larger issue.
What if the opportunities arise and the quarterback can’t capitalize?
Bringing Bowers back would provide another option but wouldn’t necessarily resolve the questions surrounding Cousins.
Bowers brings considerable value beyond simple short passes. He can stretch the field and exploit weaknesses further downfield, which circles us back to Mendoza.
Initially, the rationale for starting Cousins seemed sound. Letting the veteran lead would provide the rookie with a chance to absorb the offense without overwhelming him. There’s still merit to this approach.
Yet, it shouldn’t become an unyielding policy that ignores on-field performance.
Mendoza resembles a gift waiting to be unwrapped. Each day, it captures attention, stirring excitement about what potential lies within.
The Raiders have valid reasons to be careful about when they decide to utilize him.
Nonetheless, the possibility alters the overall narrative. While Cousins’ limitations are concerning, it also raises the hope that someone on the roster may enhance the offense beyond what the veteran currently can.
Of course, Mendoza will have to prove his worth. Possessing a stronger arm and being a high draft pick doesn’t automatically guarantee success.
For a franchise and its fan base that have endured quarterback struggles for decades, the prospect of a solution being so close is quite refreshing.
And there’s something thrilling about the idea that turning to him could elevate their expectations.
If Cousins’ shortcomings begin dictating too much of the playbook, the dynamics shift—especially if Mendoza starts showing promise during practice and giving Kubiak the deep throws the offense requires.
The standard can’t be that Mendoza needs to resolve every rookie-related issue before he’s considered, while Cousins receives unlimited leeway for limitations that impact everyone else’s performance.
Ultimately, there could come a point where both factors—the rookie’s development and the offense’s immediate demands—lead to the same conclusion.
Sunday didn’t confirm that the Raiders are at that juncture just yet.
However, it certainly established something to keep an eye on as the season progresses and opponents begin to strategize against them.
Cousins showcased his efficiency when the game focused on short throws, but how well he can function beyond that may dictate the longevity of his position.
