"Kirko Chainz" is back like he never left.
JETTAS GAVE KIRK COUSINS THE SC TOP 10 CHAIN pic.twitter.com/YSCikjL3yG
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 24, 2023
Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins gained the nickname last year after celebrating wins by wearing his teammates' chains, including offensive lineman Christian Darrisaw.
Kirk Cousins on wearing Christian Darrisaw’s chain, which Kris Boyd put on him:
— Will Ragatz (@WillRagatz) October 5, 2022
“I had never actually put a chain on, so that was my first experience of what that feels like. Honestly, it was very empowering. It felt pretty good to have that chain on.”
pic.twitter.com/2K8ChZRgbK
He earned his chain on Monday night with an incredible game against an excellent 49ers defense in a 22-17 win. Cousins finished 35-of-45 for 378 yards, two touchdowns, an interception and no sacks.
His performance was even more impressive considering Minnesota was without All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson (hamstring).
Rookie first-rounder Jordan Addison stepped up in his absence, finishing with seven receptions, 123 yards and two touchdowns. His best play came when he fought the ball away from defensive back Charvarius Ward and scored a 60-yard touchdown after Ward got the best of him earlier on an interception.
Charvarius Ward said gimme that
— NFL (@NFL) October 24, 2023
: #SFvsMIN on ESPN/ABC
: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/riDUhbzXkK pic.twitter.com/XytGIlAB2J
OH MY‼️ JORDAN ADDISON #SCtop10 | #SFvMIN pic.twitter.com/W8sbbakEjX
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 24, 2023
The win reframes Minnesota's season and makes them a threat for a playoff spot in a weak NFC. While they were more lucky than good last season, the Vikings (3-4) have been more unlucky than bad through the first seven weeks of 2023.
Cousins has played well all year; through Week 7, he's second in the league in passing yards (2,057) and first in passing touchdowns (16).
"Kirko Chainz" has been around all season. On Monday night, Cousins - and the Vikings - finally had something to celebrate.
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