Saquon Barkley's 2024 season was a true anomaly, a unicorn moment that left many to wonder if it would ever be matched. The Eagles running back dominated the league in rushing attempts and yards, averaged an NFL-best 125.3 rushing yards per game, and amassed a staggering 2,283 yards from scrimmage. However, his postseason run ultimately secured him the record for most combined rushing yards in the regular season and postseason.
Barkley's impressive performance earned him numerous accolades, including being named the NFL's Offensive Player of The Year, appearing on the cover of "Madden NFL 26," winning an ESPY, and being voted the league's No. 1 overall player by his peers. However, with Jonathan Taylor emerging as a force to be reckoned with in 2025, Barkley's record-breaking season may soon be eclipsed.
The Colts' running back is having a remarkable season, matching Barkley's 2024 output through eight weeks and exceeding it in some areas. While still slightly behind Barkley in rushing attempts, Taylor has more receiving yards, nearly as many total yards from scrimmage, and twice as many rushing touchdowns while averaging the same yards per carry.
The statistics between the two running backs are striking. Taylor has rushed for 850 yards on 143 carries, while Barkley achieved 925 yards on 157 carries. However, it's worth noting that Taylor has also received more receiving yards, with 206 compared to Barkley's 146. This increase in receptions has made a significant impact on his overall statistics.
In order to threaten Barkley's record-breaking season, Taylor will need to continue his impressive form and stay healthy throughout the remainder of the season. The Colts' schedule will also play a crucial role, with five games against top-10 rushing defenses in their final nine matches. If Taylor can overcome these challenges, it's possible that he could overtake Barkley's record.
Taylor has shown his ability to perform at an elite level before, earning 1,811 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in 2021 while amassing 2,171 yards from scrimmage. While this season may be more challenging due to the tough schedule ahead, Taylor's experience and talent make him a formidable opponent for anyone looking to challenge Barkley's record.
Ultimately, only time will tell if Jonathan Taylor can match or surpass Saquon Barkley's incredible 2024 season. One thing is certain, however: the competition has increased, and the stakes are higher than ever.
Barkley's impressive performance earned him numerous accolades, including being named the NFL's Offensive Player of The Year, appearing on the cover of "Madden NFL 26," winning an ESPY, and being voted the league's No. 1 overall player by his peers. However, with Jonathan Taylor emerging as a force to be reckoned with in 2025, Barkley's record-breaking season may soon be eclipsed.
The Colts' running back is having a remarkable season, matching Barkley's 2024 output through eight weeks and exceeding it in some areas. While still slightly behind Barkley in rushing attempts, Taylor has more receiving yards, nearly as many total yards from scrimmage, and twice as many rushing touchdowns while averaging the same yards per carry.
The statistics between the two running backs are striking. Taylor has rushed for 850 yards on 143 carries, while Barkley achieved 925 yards on 157 carries. However, it's worth noting that Taylor has also received more receiving yards, with 206 compared to Barkley's 146. This increase in receptions has made a significant impact on his overall statistics.
In order to threaten Barkley's record-breaking season, Taylor will need to continue his impressive form and stay healthy throughout the remainder of the season. The Colts' schedule will also play a crucial role, with five games against top-10 rushing defenses in their final nine matches. If Taylor can overcome these challenges, it's possible that he could overtake Barkley's record.
Taylor has shown his ability to perform at an elite level before, earning 1,811 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns in 2021 while amassing 2,171 yards from scrimmage. While this season may be more challenging due to the tough schedule ahead, Taylor's experience and talent make him a formidable opponent for anyone looking to challenge Barkley's record.
Ultimately, only time will tell if Jonathan Taylor can match or surpass Saquon Barkley's incredible 2024 season. One thing is certain, however: the competition has increased, and the stakes are higher than ever.