Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley has become the ninth player in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season, leading his team to a dominant 41-7 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. The achievement came in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s game, which clinched the NFC East Division title for the Eagles.
Barkley was handed the ball on five straight plays in the fourth quarter and finished with 167 yards on 31 carries. He is now just 101 yards from breaking Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record.
Coach Nick Sirianni kept Barkley in the game despite a big lead, and he received a standing ovation from his teammates as the fans chanted “MVP.” The coaching staff will have to weigh allowing Barkley to chase the record against ensuring his health heading into the postseason.
The Eagles are set to face their former teammate Saquon’s current team in Week 18. Left tackle Jordan Mailata said he wants to see the starters play, while right tackle Lane Johnson suggested resting the starters. The decision is uncertain as Coach Sirianni will have to consider what’s best for the team’s goals.
Barkley remained calm about the situation and said he’ll support whatever decision his coach makes. He acknowledged that breaking Dickerson’s record would be an honor but also wants to see a banner with the Eagles’ name on it.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43211812/eagles-saquon-barkley-eclipses-2000-yard-mark-season