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How comments from Kirk Cousins help explain J.J. McCarthy’s struggles
Kirk Cousins credits pure progression for reducing quarterback stress and aiding J.J. McCarthy's adaptation this NFL season, with recent games showing his improvement.
- Kirk Cousins, veteran quarterback, said recently that Kevin O'Connell's pure progression implementation eased his weekly stress and young quarterback J.J. McCarthy has struggled to adapt this season.
- To blunt that, coaches introduced pure progression because opposing NFL defenses disguise coverage so effectively that pausing a QB's drop-back often obscures the call.
- Quarterbacks execute a pre-snap checklist focused on safeties' alignment, then follow planned progressions, while game plans hinge on single-high versus split safety to attack voids in play design.
- In recent games, J.J. McCarthy showed bright moments in wins over the Washington Commanders and Dallas Cowboys, while Kevin O'Connell praised his downfield decision-making despite limited sustained success.
- This season, the league-wide debate centers on pure progression, with proponents saying it finds open receivers and critics warning it can stunt development; Kirk Cousins initially stressed under disguise before seeing benefits.
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J.J. McCarthy Explains What Changed During Recent Improvement
Dec 14, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor (1) celebrates with quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) after a touchdown catch during the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy struggled earlier in the season but has been excellent over the past two weeks. This week, he spoke to the media at a press conference and…
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Total News Sources19
Leaning Left0Leaning Right9Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution69% Right
Bias Distribution
- 69% of the sources lean Right
69% Right
C 31%
R 69%
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