Saquon Barkley is on a mission to redefine what’s possible for NFL running backs. After a career-best performance on Sunday Night Football, the Philadelphia Eagles star has surged into the MVP conversation, a feat almost unheard of for non-quarterbacks in the modern era.
The question on everyone’s mind: Can Barkley break records and end the 12-year drought of running backs winning the NFL MVP award?
A Historic Season in the Making
Barkley’s dominance has been nothing short of spectacular this season. In the Eagles’ commanding 37-20 victory over the Rams, he racked up an astonishing 302 total yards and two touchdowns, a career-best performance that sent shockwaves through the league.
On Pace for History
- Projected Rushing Yards: 2,151 (would break Eric Dickerson’s all-time single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards, set in 1984).
- Projected Touchdowns: 15 rushing TDs.
Joining the elite group of players who have rushed for over 2,000 yards in a season—last achieved by Derrick Henry in 2020—would make Barkley’s MVP case undeniable.
MVP Odds Surge
Barkley’s standout performances have not gone unnoticed by oddsmakers:
- MVP Odds: Leaping from +7500 to +500 at DraftKings, placing him just behind quarterbacks Josh Allen (+150) and Lamar Jackson (+250).
- Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY) Odds: Now the clear favorite at -300 after overtaking fellow contender Derrick Henry.
Sports bettors who took a chance on Barkley at long-shot odds are now sitting on gold.
Why Barkley’s MVP Bid Stands Out
- Game-Changing Ability:
Barkley’s versatility as a rusher and receiver has made him the centerpiece of the Eagles’ offense. His explosive plays and ability to dominate games set him apart. - Historic Context:
Adrian Peterson in 2012 was the last running back to win MVP, thanks to a similarly record-breaking season. Barkley is poised to replicate that kind of impact. - Team Success:
The Eagles’ impressive record this season only bolsters Barkley’s MVP credentials. As the driving force behind their offense, his contributions are undeniable.
The Challenge of Breaking the QB Hold
Despite Barkley’s dominance, the MVP award has been a quarterback-dominated prize in recent years. To sway voters, Barkley will need to maintain his record-breaking pace and continue delivering jaw-dropping performances.
Key Comparisons:
- Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, both frontrunners, are having stellar seasons leading their teams from under center.
- Barkley’s challenge is to outshine them with raw stats and game-changing moments that prove his value is unmatched.
Conclusion
Saquon Barkley’s journey this season is one of grit, talent, and history in the making. As he chases down the single-season rushing record and propels the Eagles toward playoff success, he’s proving that running backs still matter in today’s quarterback-centric NFL.
Winning MVP would cement Barkley’s place in football lore, making him a shining example of how non-QBs can rise to the game’s highest individual honor.