Former Michigan State QB Kirk Cousins steps up for Redskins in Week 14 victory

Thrust into action after starting quarterback Robert Griffin III went down with an injury, former Michigan State Spartans signal caller Kirk Cousins helped save the afternoon for the Washington Redskins on Sunday in a 31-28 win over Baltimore.

Hoping to tie the Ravens on their final drive of the game, the Redskins were forced to alter their mindset after Griffin's injury ultimately forced the No. 2 overall pick to the sideline. Cousins, who had only throw a pass in one game all season previously, immediately found Redskins wide receiver Pierre Garcon in the end zone on his very first throw. Along with marking his second career touchdown pass, Cousins' strike to Garcon came with just 29 seconds in the fourth quarter.

Needing a two-point conversion in order to force a tie however, Cousins proceeded to run up the middle on a quarterback draw play that officially evened the score. A second completion in overtime soon helped to set up his team's game-winning field goal attempt in the extra frame, as Cousins effectively picked up the slack with Griffin out with injury.

While an MRI scheduled for Monday will determine Griffin's status for Week 15, this injury could clearly open the door for the former Spartan to show his ability down the stretch. The Redskins were extremely high on Cousins coming out of MSU despite their obvious interest in Griffin, but an extended stretch under center could definitely make Cousins a viable commodity on the trade market this offseason.