Saquon Barkley Breaks 2,000-Yard Mark, Eagles Dominate Cowboys 34-13
Saquon Barkley galloped through the Cowboys’ defense to rush for a season-high 167 yards, securing his place in the top 10 rushers in NFL history and bringing him within 100 yards of breaking Eric Dickerson’s single-season record. The Philadelphia Eagles, led by Barkley, dominated the Dallas Cowboys 34-13.
Barkley, who is the NFL’s leading back, rushed for 31 times, garnering 167 yards, and becoming the ninth player in NFL history to reach the 2,000-yard mark. His impressive performance garnered chants of “MVP” from the Philadelphia faithful.
The Eagles started the game with backup quarterbacks Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee, with Pickett leading a 27-7 lead before being knocked out with a rib injury. The game plan was clear, with the Eagles feeding Barkley throughout the fourth quarter to get him as close to the record as possible.
The Philadelphia defense, led by safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, forced four turnovers, stifling the Cowboys’ offense. The defense allowed only 163 total yards and eight first downs over the final eight possessions, showcasing their ability to adjust mid-game and foreshadowing their potential success in the postseason.
The Cowboys, meanwhile, sunk to their second losing season under coach Mike McCarthy, with their second loss to the Eagles this season. The win ensures that the Eagles will clinch the NFC East title and will face the New York Giants in Week 18, with an opportunity to continue their drive for the record.
The Eagles’ victory also sets up an intriguing dynamic, as they weigh the importance of going for the record against the potential to rest Barkley ahead of the postseason. Will they prioritize the record or prioritize their star player’s well-being? Only time will tell.