Eagles RB Saquon Barkley Ruled Out for Week 18, Eric Dickerson’s Record Stands
Philadelphia, PA – The Philadelphia Eagles will be without star running back Saquon Barkley in their season finale against the New York Giants on Sunday. Barkley suffered a high ankle sprain in the Eagles’ Week 17 victory over the New Orleans Saints and has been ruled out of action by the team’s medical staff.
Barkley’s Absence a Blow to Eagles’ Playoff Hopes
Barkley’s absence is a significant blow to the Eagles’ playoff hopes. The 26-year-old running back has been a key part of the Eagles’ offense this season, rushing for 1,312 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also has 57 receptions for 556 yards and two touchdowns.
Without Barkley, the Eagles will likely turn to Miles Sanders and Kenneth Gainwell to carry the load in the backfield. Sanders has rushed for 1,269 yards and 11 touchdowns this season, while Gainwell has rushed for 689 yards and five touchdowns.
Dickerson’s Record Remains Intact
Barkley’s absence also means that Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record will remain intact. Dickerson set the record in 1984 when he rushed for 2,105 yards with the Los Angeles Rams. Barkley was on pace to challenge Dickerson’s record this season, but his injury will prevent him from doing so.
Dickerson’s record has stood for nearly 40 years, and it is considered one of the most unbreakable records in NFL history. Barkley was one of the few players who had a chance to break the record this season, but his injury has put an end to that possibility.
What’s Next for the Eagles?
The Eagles will need to win their Week 18 matchup against the Giants to secure a playoff berth. If they lose, they will need the Detroit Lions to defeat the Green Bay Packers in order to qualify for the postseason.
The Eagles are currently 9-8 on the season, while the Giants are 9-7. The game will be played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Sunday, January 8th, at 1:00 PM EST.