Jalen Hurts unleashed himself in the NFC Championship Game against the Washington Commanders. The quarterback showed off his skills not only by running the ball but in the throwing department as well.
However, former NFL wide receiver Andrew Hawkins credits running back Saquon Barkley for the success of the Eagles after the QB’s “straitjacket” comments.
Andrew Hawkins: Saquon Barkley Not Jalen Hurts Is the Reason Behind Eagles’ Super Bowl Run
For most of the season, the Eagles didn’t have to rely much on their passing; both Hurts and Barkley ran the ball to dangerous effect. In the NFC Championship Game, however, in addition to rushing, Hurts’ arm was summoned often.
The 26-year-old made 20 successful throws in 28 attempts for 246 yards and registered a touchdown as well. After the game, Hurts credited head coach Nick Sirianni for letting him out of his “straitjacket.”
On Jan. 29, Hawkins appeared on ESPN’s “Get Up” and responded to Hurts’ comments. The former WR pointed out that it is the tactic of running the ball that has favored them the most and will take them to the promised land as well as highlighting Barkley’s efforts.
“It’s something, I mean, otherwise, there’s no reason to even comment on it,” he said regarding Hurts’ statement. “Now, he could be taking jabs at the media.”
“The reality is, everything runs through Saquon. This is a running offense, and we’re like, we’re used to hearing that you have to throw the ball to win a Super Bowl. That could still be the case.
“But to this point after the NFC Championship Game, this offense runs through Saquon, and you only need to pass it if they can stop them, and most times they’ve not been able to do so.”
The three-time Pro Bowler Barkley registered a career-best 345 carries for 2,005 yards this season. The former New York Giants man got to the end zone 13 times as well, another career best.
The 27-year-old has continued his form in the postseason as well. In three games, he has 442 yards in 66 carries and five touchdowns. Philly faithful will expect a similar output from him in New Orleans against the Kansas City Chiefs.