As the NFL season marches into its latter half, the spotlight once again shines brightly on Saquon Barkley, the New York Giants' star running back. Barkley's performance this season is not merely extraordinary; it is on the verge of being historic. Through the first 12 games, he has accumulated 1,499 rushing yards, placing him among elite company by achieving the eighth-most rushing yards over such a span in NFL history.
Barkley's Remarkable Start
Barkley's rushing prowess shouldn't come as a surprise to those familiar with his career trajectory. Known for his combination of speed, power, and agility, he is not only meeting but exceeding expectations this season. For context, Jim Brown in 1963 was another running back who dominated early in a season, surpassing 1,475 rushing yards and scoring 10 touchdowns while averaging 6.0 yards per carry in the opening 12 games. Barkley’s achievements so far echo this level of dominance. His 1,499 rushing yards put him on a path that sees him comfortably outpacing many of his contemporaries and predecessors.
Chasing Records
When discussing rushing records, the name Eric Dickerson inevitably arises. Holding the revered single-season record of 2,105 rushing yards, Dickerson's mark has been a lofty goal for any running back. As it stands, Barkley will need to average 121.2 rushing yards per game for the remainder of the season to match this hallowed record. Fortunately for Giants fans, Barkley is currently averaging 124.9 rushing yards per game, suggesting that with continued health and form, the record is within his grasp.
Yards from Scrimmage: A Dual Threat
Barkley's contribution to the Giants goes beyond his rushing capabilities. His versatility is highlighted by his league-leading average of 147.2 yards from scrimmage per game. This season, he has amassed a staggering 1,766 yards from scrimmage. With this dual-threat capability, Barkley projects to finish the season with approximately 2,502 scrimmage yards, putting him tantalizingly close to Chris Johnson's 2009 record of 2,509 yards from scrimmage.
Such multifaceted effectiveness is not only commendable but rare. The landscape of the NFL is dotted with players who excel in specific facets, but to dominate both rushing and receiving as Barkley has done, reflects a degree of adaptability and resilience that is difficult to match.
Potential for MVP Consideration
In a league that often favors quarterbacks for the most prestigious individual accolades, a running back winning the MVP award is a rare sight. Adrian Peterson was the last running back to claim this honor, in 2012, underscoring the difficulty of achieving this feat in recent years. However, should Barkley maintain his current trajectory, there is a compelling argument for his consideration. His ability to consistently elevate the Giants' offensive play may indeed warrant a revisitation of the criteria by which MVP candidates are judged.
Barkley's season has not only been about individual accomplishment but has significantly contributed to the Giants' resurgence in competitiveness. Amidst a challenging roster and the pressures of high expectations, Barkley's consistency provides a cornerstone upon which the team can build.
In conclusion, as the NFL season progresses, all eyes will remain on Barkley as he continues to chase history. Whether he surpasses the legendary milestones that stand before him or not, his 2023 campaign will be remembered as one of the most remarkable displays of running back talent in the modern era. Giants fans and NFL enthusiasts alike will watch eagerly, anticipating each yard that brings Barkley closer to etching his name alongside, or perhaps above, the legends of the game.