Nick Sirianni Makes 1st Comments on Saquon Barkley Going for Rushing Record in Week 18

Dec 29, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs off the field after win against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Dec 29, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs off the field after win against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images / Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
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The Philadelphia Eagles are 13-3 on the season and clinched the NFC East in Week 17. Philadelphia dominated the Dallas Cowboys en route to a 41-7 win. That victory made the Eagles division winners for the second time in three years.

Not only did they win the NFC East but running back Saquon Barkley eclipsed 2,000 yards rushing. He became the ninth running back in NFL history to reach that mark. With 10:39 left in the fourth quarter, Barkley logged a 23-yard run that put him over the mark.

With the division locked up and the Eagles likely penciled into the second seed in the NFC, there is speculation if Barkley will suit up and attempt to break the all-time rushing record in Week 18. Head coach Nick Sirianni gave his first answer on that after the game.

Eagles News: Philadelphia Unsure on Saquon Barkley’s Availability in Week 18

When asked if Barkley would attempt to break the record against the New York Giants in Week 18, Sirianni said, "We'll see."

The Penn State product has 2,005 rushing yards on the season and needs 101 yards to break Eric Dickerson's all-time record that he logged with the Rams in 1984 (2,105).

Barkley came over to Philadelphia in March on a three-year, $37 million deal in free agency and has been the best tailback in the league. It would be fitting to have Barkley break the record and become the all-time leading rusher against his former team. When these clubs matched up in Week 7, Barkley exploded for 176 yards and a score.

In addition, the Giants are ranked 31st in the league in run defense (141.6) so the pathway for Barkley breaking the record is there.

With all that being said, there's a great chance that Philadelphia rest their starters on Sunday. With the playoffs right around the corner, this matchup gives them the chance to get extra rest before the postseason begins. We'll have to see what they decide to do but there are reasons behind either decision.

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