In a season that has seen remarkable feats and shattered expectations, Saquon Barkley stands out as a pivotal figure in the New York Giants' lineup. As the season unfolds, Barkley's performance is not only driving the Giants forward but is also etching his name among the NFL's history makers.
A Season for the Ages
Through the first 12 games, Barkley has managed to accomplish what few running backs have before him, amassing one of the highest rushing yard totals in such a span in NFL history. With an impressive 1,499 rushing yards to his name, he has already surpassed many of his predecessors. His efforts have placed him eighth in history for rushing yards in the first 12 games of a season, reflecting his relentless pursuit for greatness.
To put this achievement into perspective, the legendary Jim Brown in 1963 reached 1,475+ rushing yards and scored over 10 touchdowns while maintaining an average of 6.0 yards per carry during the first dozen games. In comparison, Barkley is not far behind the comrades of old, showcasing a dazzling form that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Chasing Legends
While Barkley's current statistics are already laudable, his eyes are set on loftier goals. Eric Dickerson's single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards stands as a significant milestone that Barkley is edging closer to with each game. To match this record, Barkley needs to average 121.2 rushing yards over the remaining games. Given his current pace of 124.9 yards per game, Barkley is well poised to give Dickerson a run for his record.
Moreover, Barkley is dominating beyond just the rushing game. He currently leads the league in yards from scrimmage, with an average of 147.2 yards per game, amounting to a staggering total of 1,766 yards from scrimmage for the season. The comparison to Chris Johnson’s monumental 2009 season, where Johnson set the record for the most yards from scrimmage at 2,509, places Barkley's achievements under the spotlight. Barkley’s season projection is 2,502 yards, just shy of Johnson's historic mark, indicating yet another potential record-breaking trajectory.
The Battle for MVP
In the grand tapestry of the NFL, running backs winning the MVP award have become rare. The last running back to earn this honor was Adrian Peterson in 2012. Given Barkley's substantial contribution to the Giants’ success and his record-breaking pace, there's burgeoning speculation about his candidacy for the prestigious title. His dynamic play and leadership on the field undeniably boost his odds in the MVP race, sending ripples through the league as analysts weigh in on his impact.
Cementing a Legacy
As the regular season enters its final stretch, Barkley's journey continues to capture the imagination of fans and pundits alike. Should he maintain or even outpace his current statistics, Barkley will not only break new ground but also rejuvenate the conversation around the influence of running backs in contemporary football.
Saquon Barkley’s 2023 season is already being earmarked as one for the record books, and with each passing game, he moves closer to cementing his legacy among the all-time greats. His relentless drive and unparalleled talent underscore his role as a cornerstone of the Giants’ offense and a potential dark horse in the MVP contention. Indeed, this season promises to be one that fans will recount for years to come, recalling how Barkley ran through defenses and charged into the annals of NFL history.