Saquon Barkley is known as the NFL’s version of Shohei Ohtani, why is he being compared like that?

Barkley’s Impressive Performance

Saquon Barkley is delivering an outstanding performance this NFL season, making him one of the league’s most prominent players. In a game against the Los Angeles Rams, Barkley achieved two spectacular touchdown runs of 72 and 70 yards, contributing significantly to the team’s 37-20 victory. With five runs of over 50 yards this season, he is on track to break Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record of 2,105 yards, set in 1984.

A Historic Display of Determination

Barkley’s historic performance against the Rams, where he amassed a total of 255 yards, set a franchise record and captured national attention. He is emerging as a leading contender for the AP NFL MVP award, garnering widespread fan support. However, oddsmakers don’t yet rank him as the top favorite for the honor.

The MVP Race

Currently, Josh Allen holds the best odds for the MVP title at +150, followed by Lamar Jackson at +250, with Barkley in third at +400. Historically, running backs have won the MVP award only 18 times, while quarterbacks dominate with 45 victories. Furthermore, only three non-QB or RB players have ever secured the MVP, underscoring the dominance of these positions in the award’s history.

Challenges for Barkley

For a non-quarterback to win the MVP, an extraordinary season is usually required. The most recent non-QB recipient was Adrian Peterson in 2012, when he recorded 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns for the Minnesota Vikings.

Additionally, team success plays a crucial role; nine of the last 11 MVPs played for teams that were either the No. 1 or No. 2 seed. Barkley is the driving force behind the Eagles’ impressive 9-2 record, leading the NFC East and trailing only the Detroit Lions (10-1) in the league standings. This raises the question of whether Barkley has a realistic chance of clinching the MVP award.

Opportunities for All Positions

When a kicker like Mark Moseley won the MVP in 1982, it proved that any player could earn the honor by making a significant impact. Defensive players such as Alan Page and Lawrence Taylor have also claimed the award, demonstrating that value is not exclusive to offensive positions.

Barkley’s Path to NFL Greatness

Saquon Barkley is on track to become one of the NFL’s greatest players, consistently delivering memorable moments on the field. If he maintains this level of performance, he could not only shatter personal records but also contend for the MVP title, challenging traditional perceptions about the value of non-quarterback players. With strong support from his team and fans, Barkley has the potential to cement his legacy as an icon in NFL history.