Saquon Barkley is in the midst of the finest season of his seven-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles. The 27-year-old running back is an AP NFL MVP finalist and has rewritten the franchise record book with his exceptional play. His 2,005 yards rushing this season has left him only 101 yards shy of Eric Dickerson’s season record.
Barkley’s impressive performances have not only earned him recognition but also put him in contention for several personal milestones. He is just 148 yards away from breaking Terrell Davis’ record of 2,476 yards rushing set in the 1998 season. Barkley has also flashed the kind of did-you-see-that plays that fans say are ripped straight from a video game, including a mind-bending backward hurdle that was so foreign to the sport Madden had to release an update to make it possible in its game.
Despite his success, Barkley is focused on the task at hand, stating that winning a Super Bowl means more to him than personal records. He and the Eagles will face the Washington Commanders in the NFC championship game, with the Eagles looking to make their second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons.
Commanders defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. says it’s 11-man football to stop Barkley, but the running back has consistently outperformed opposing defenses. The Commanders’ coach, Dan Quinn, echoed Whitt’s sentiments, saying that Barkley has been the emphasis every single time he has coached against him.
Barkley’s dominance has been facilitated by an impressive offensive line that has sent three players to the Pro Bowl. He has rushed for 324 yards already in his first two playoff games with the Eagles and is looking to make history as the Eagles look to make their second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons.
