Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley etched his name in the franchise's history books during a dominating performance against the Los Angeles Rams on November 24, 2024, at SoFi Stadium. The game proved to be one for the ages as Barkley delivered record-shattering statistics.
With two explosive touchdown runs of 70 and 72 yards respectively, Barkley powered the Eagles to a 37-20 victory, breaking multiple records along the way. His 255 rushing yards not only surpassed his own previous single-game high of 189 but also shattered the Eagles' franchise record of 217 rushing yards set by LeSean McCoy back in 2013. This remarkable feat placed Barkley among the elite, ranking him ninth on the all-time list for rushing yards in a single NFL game.
Yet, it wasn't merely the numbers on the scoreboard or his rushing total; it was the manner of his execution. Barkley’s 70-yard run came on the very first play of the second half, which served to reignite both the Eagles’ and the fans’ spirits. The second touchdown run, which occurred with about three minutes left to play, put the game firmly beyond the Rams' reach.
Adding to his spectacular day, Barkley caught four passes for 47 yards, giving him 302 total yards from scrimmage—a record for the Eagles. "I just played my game and trusted my abilities," Barkley remarked afterward. "I’m thankful for the line, the coaches, and my teammates who believed in me." His performance has been particularly impressive this season, marking him as the league leader with 1,392 rushing yards after just 11 games.
Unfortunately, the night's elation was shadowed by the injury to teammate Brandon Graham. The veteran edge rusher announced post-game he suffered a season-ending torn triceps. Referring to Graham’s spirit, quarterback Jalen Hurts said, "He’s always there to uplift the team, and his presence is irreplaceable.”
The Eagles entered the game hoping to extend their winning streak and maintain their lead atop the NFC East, particularly with the Washington Commanders nipping at their heels. Hurts had one of his typical steady games, completing 15 of 22 passes for 179 yards and one touchdown. Wide receiver A.J. Brown stepped up significantly, accounting for six catches and 109 yards.
The game, which began sluggishly for the Eagles, found the team trailing at halftime. After getting their first score from Hurts to Brown—just shortly before the end of the first half—it was all Barkley from then on. Following his first significant touchdown run, the Eagles scored on the next drive, as Kenneth Gainwell also got onto the stats sheet with his 13-yard touchdown run shortly afterward.
Reflecting on his choice to leave the New York Giants and join the Eagles, Barkley expressed his desire for redemption. "I wanted to rewrite my story and show everyone what kind of player I am and can be," he shared. With six games left this season, the prospect of landing yet another exciting chapter remains alive.
Barkley's performance clearly set the tone for the Eagles’ offense—efficiency and power at its finest. His 9.8 yards per carry average exemplifies how difficult he was to stop, emphasizing just how formidable he’s become. After establishing his rhythm, he attributed much of his success to the support of his teammates. "Kenny and Will are good players, and we all work together to make things happen. It's about trust and teamwork," he said.
On the defensive side, the Eagles also demonstrated their prowess with five sacks of Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, including two by defensive tackle Milton Williams. The combination of Barkley’s historic day along with significant defensive contributions proved too much for the Rams, who fell to 5-6 on the season.
Matthew Stafford completed 24 of 36 passes for 243 yards with one touchdown, but it was plain to see the disconnect between him and his receiving corps. While Puka Nacua managed to achieve nine catches for 117 yards, the Rams struggled to match the Eagles' pace. They managed only two touchdowns against what is now firmly established as one of the league's most formidable defenses this season.
After the final whistle, aimless optimism remained among the Eagles' fans, particularly as Barkley's future looms bright. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni praised Barkley's versatility, noting, "He just stopped on a dime. It's not normal what he does to defenders? He’s special, and he’s showing it this season.” Barkley’s chapter with the Eagles is still being written, and he’s eager for what lies on the horizon. With the season half complete, the Eagles find themselves 9-2 and firmly set their eyes on the playoffs. The team's growing chemistry alongside individual talents promises buzz for weeks to come.
