Falcons Shock Eagles in Thrilling Comeback
PHILADELPHIA — In a stunning turn of events, Kirk Cousins led the Atlanta Falcons to a dramatic 22-21 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles during “Monday Night Football” at Lincoln Financial Field. While Cousins was modest about his performance, Jessie Bates III, one of the team’s high-profile free-agent acquisitions, recognized the stakes. “This is what the money is for,” he admitted.
The Falcons (1-1) secured the win thanks to Cousins orchestrating a remarkable 70-yard drive with just 1:05 left on the clock, culminating in a 7-yard touchdown pass to Drake London with only 34 seconds remaining. Bates later sealed the victory by intercepting a desperate last-ditch effort from Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts with 19 seconds still on the clock.
Cousins, who signed the largest free-agent contract in NFL history this offseason, a four-year deal that could reach up to $180 million, demonstrated his value under pressure. Bates, who was the marquee free-agent signing two seasons ago with a four-year, $64 million contract, was instrumental in this victory. In addition to his game-sealing interception, Bates made a crucial pass breakup at the goal line against DeVonta Smith, forcing the Eagles to settle for a field goal in the third quarter.
“In big-time moments and games, you expect players like us to step up and make plays,” Bates said. “It’s about getting the right guys in here, those who can change the game.”
When asked about the significance of their hefty contracts, Bates smiled and replied, “I guess you could say that, for sure.” He also led the Falcons with 12 tackles during the game.
Coach Raheem Morris shared his thoughts on Bates’ critical plays, stating, “Jessie making those plays was very important. It’s the reason he’s here. Our ownership made significant investments in our defense and offense for moments like this.”
Cousins, unfazed by the weight of his contract, focused solely on the game. “I’m just trying to play football with my teammates and get out of here with a win,” he said. “Finding ways to win is crucial. It’s the key to having a great season, especially in games that could go either way.”
His touchdown pass to London marked Atlanta’s first game-winning touchdown with under two minutes remaining since 2016, according to ESPN Stats & Info. With just 1:56 left on the clock, the Falcons had a mere 0.7 percent chance of winning, making it one of the most improbable comebacks tracked since 2016.
“Kirk faced a lot of criticism this week,” Bates added. “To see his poise and execution during that drive was incredible. When it’s time to make a play, that’s who we lean on, and I’m glad we have him.”
Cousins completed 20 of 29 passes for 241 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions, improving his record to 4-10 in Monday Night Football appearances. “I just try to play football the best I can, regardless of when the game is,” he noted.
On the receiving end, Darnell Mooney led the Falcons with three catches for 88 yards, including two pivotal catches for 47 yards on the final drive and a touchdown catch that spurred the team’s momentum. London contributed with six catches for 54 yards, though he faced momentary anxiety after being flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct following his tying score. “Thank God Koo is an amazing kicker,” London said, referring to Younghoe Koo, who successfully converted a critical 47-yard extra point. “I can’t put my team in jeopardy, but Koo came in and saved us.”
Atlanta’s rushing attack was led by Bijan Robinson, who carried the ball 14 times for 97 yards. Cousins praised the offensive strategy, saying, “I thought (offensive coordinator Zac Robinson) did a phenomenal job of committing to the run game. It gave us a chance to win on the road.”
The Falcons celebrated their victory in jubilant fashion, with team owner Arthur Blank emerging from the locker room drenched in water from the festive celebration. Many players joyfully echoed Cousins’ well-known chant, “You like that?!” Meanwhile, Morris made his way to the postgame interview session clutching a game ball, though he maintained a steady demeanor.
“I didn’t come here to beat the Philadelphia Eagles,” Morris stated. “I was brought here to position us for championships, and that’s our ultimate goal. You can’t ride the emotional roller coaster; every game is the same. We’ll go through our process and prepare for next week.”
Next week, the Falcons will face off against the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in a highly anticipated matchup at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Cousins reflected on a special moment from the weekend, recalling a brief encounter with former Eagles quarterback Nick Foles during the coin toss. “At Michigan State, there were concerns about how it would work out for both of us,” Cousins said. “Seeing him honored tonight reminded me of that. I told him, ‘It worked out for both of us.'”
(Photo: Eric Hartline / Imagn Images)
