Eagles Schedule Gives Saquon Barkley Perfect Opportunity to Break NFL Record

The Philadelphia Eagles' remaining schedule is excellent news for Saquon Barkley chasing NFL history.
Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images
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Saquon Barkley is in the midst of a historic season. Since being signed in the offseason by the Eagles, Barkley has taken the league by storm, firmly establishing himself as an MVP candidate.

Not only does the star running back have a chance to win the MVP, but he could also potentially make NFL history. Through 12 games this season, he has 1,499 rushing yards, only 606 away from Eric Dickerson's 2,105, the most rushing yards in a season.

Looking at Philadelphia's remaining schedule, Barkley has an excellent shot at breaking the record. As Jimmy Kempski of the Philly Voice pointed out, four of the next five opponents have bottom-six run defenses. The Eagles face the worst run defense in the league, the Panthers, this week and are scheduled to play the Cowboys, the second-worst run defense, in Week 17.

Barkley has to average 121.2 rushing yards per game to break Dickerson's record. Considering that he is averaging 124.9 so far this season, this is certainly within his reach.

One risk here is the possibility that the Eagles could elect to rest him towards the end of the season if they manage to clinch the first-round bye. Whether the coaching staff and Barkley decide to go for the record will likely depend on how close he is at that point.

On FanDuel Sportsbook, Barkley is +300 to break the single-season rushing record. This implies a 25% probability. Whether the Pro Bowler breaks Dickerson's record or not, his 2024 season will be remembered forever by Eagles fans.

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