Running back Saquon Barkley is on track to create NFL history no matter what the outcome of the Super Bowl between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles is. But the seventh-year veteran has bigger fish to fry and warns quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Co. ahead of the big game.
Saquon Barkley Warned Winner of Chiefs vs. Bills Ahead of AFC Championship
Barkley had a third straight dominant outing in the playoffs during the NFC Championship Game, starting things off with a 60-yard home-run touchdown.
That set the tone for Philly’s offense, who proceeded to wear down the Washington Commanders’ defense for the rest of the game. In a 55-23 rout, the Eagles finished the game with seven rushing touchdowns.
Barkley had two of them, finishing the game with 118 yards on 15 carries. This was his third consecutive postseason outing with over 100 yards rushing.
Barkley was in high spirits in the Eagles’ locker room during their Conference Championship celebrations after the game. He spoke highly of how Philadelphia was able to establish its passing game alongside its running game.
Barkley praised wide receiver A.J. Brown, calling him “the best in the world.” He also issued a warning to their AFC opponents in the Super Bowl.
“Whoever plays us next, good luck!”
“Whoever plays us next, good luck.”
— #Eagles RB Saquon Barkley after Eagles NFC Championship Victory | @SiriusXMNFL pic.twitter.com/s0L7XKxML4
— Chiefs Receipts (@ChiefsReceipts) January 29, 2025
As we’ve seen thus far this postseason, Barkley’s warning is by no means an empty threat. The Penn State alumnus has racked up a whopping 442 rushing yards and five touchdowns on just 66 carries. He’s also already compiled three touchdowns of 60+ yards in this year’s playoffs — the record before was one.
The Eagles are also able to limit their turnovers, keep possession, and establish their running game regardless of opponents. Philadelphia’s offensive line, spearheaded by tackles Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, has been dominant in the trenches. Quarterback Jalen Hurts has also been rushing and passing with assurance, although their leads have gotten offensive coordinator Kellen Moore to rely more on the ground game to run the clock.
Philly’s defense, meanwhile, has held three explosive offenses in check. Defensive tackle Jalen Carter has been a menacing interior presence, pulling off big plays in critical moments. Their secondary has largely held up against scrutiny, although they did give up some big plays to wide receivers Puka Nacua and Terry McLaurin.
Barkley is 29 yards shy of Terrell Davis’ 1998 total of 2,476 rushing yards during the regular season and playoffs combined. He is just two yards shy of Davis’ 2,762 scrimmage yards total from that year.
Barkley has been, by and large, the NFL’s most noteworthy performer regardless of position. Yet, on his 28th birthday, Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will still pose Barkley’s biggest tests.
