Confident Vikings thriving behind letting-it-loose Cousins

By DAVE CAMPBELL
AP Pro Football Writer

EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — Questions about whether Kirk Cousins would find a higher level of comfort this year with the Minnesota Vikings have been answered by the NFC North standings. Recent video evidence from the team plane of Cousins dancing shirtless with diamond-studded chains draped around his neck put any lingering doubt to rest. Cousins and the Vikings have been thriving in a more relaxed environment around team headquarters following a change in coaching staffs. Winning makes the ultimate difference. The Vikings are 7-1 and in first place in the NFC North. They play at Buffalo Sunday.