The Philadelphia Eagles, currently holding an 8-3 record, are navigating a challenging season marked by inconsistent performances and internal tension. Despite their strong position in the NFC East, recent struggles—including a significant defeat against the Dallas Cowboys—have raised questions about the team’s dynamics, particularly regarding the effectiveness of their star running back, Saquon Barkley.
During a segment of “First Take” on November 29, 2023, sports commentator Stephen A. Smith expressed concern over the Eagles’ reliance on key players while overlooking Barkley’s contributions. “We’re talking about Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, Nick Sirianni,” he noted. “But we’re not addressing Saquon Barkley. Where the hell is he at?” This inquiry comes as the Eagles grapple with what Smith describes as an identity crisis, particularly in their ground game.
Barkley, who had a standout season last year, is facing a noticeable decline in performance. His average yards per carry have dropped significantly, from 5.9 yards in the first quarter of games to just 1.9 yards in the fourth quarter. Furthermore, Barkley has yet to score a touchdown in the final period of any of the Eagles’ first 11 games this season. Given his lucrative contract following a stellar 2022 season, expectations for Barkley have understandably increased.
Despite his struggles, the Eagles remain positioned to secure a top seed in the NFC, demonstrating resilience amid the turmoil. The ongoing discussions about the team’s challenges have often focused on higher-profile players and coaching strategies, leaving Barkley’s performance as a less sensational topic of conversation. Smith’s remarks highlight a critical aspect of the Eagles’ potential to succeed: the necessity for Barkley to regain his form.
The Eagles’ ability to address these internal issues could be pivotal as they aim for playoff success. Smith’s analysis underscores the importance of every player contributing effectively, especially when the stakes are high. While the Eagles are managing to stay competitive, they must also confront the reality that their performance hinges on the collective efforts of the team, including Barkley’s resurgence.
With the season progressing, attention will remain on how the Eagles adapt and whether Barkley can reclaim his status as a key player. As they prepare for the upcoming games, the spotlight will be on not just the team’s overall performance, but also on individual contributions that can make or break their championship aspirations.
