Week 13 – Peter King on Saquon Barkley, the Commanders, the 49ers, and the future of Daniel Jones
Nov 26, 2024
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The conversation heats up as Saquon Barkley makes a strong case for MVP with his explosive performance. The struggles of the struggling Commanders and 49ers are dissected, revealing injuries and mounting pressure. Amidst quarterback turmoil, the future of Daniel Jones and the Giants raises eyebrows, leading to questions about team dynamics and decisions. Insights into running back valuation spark a debate on how star players like Barkley and Derrick Henry should be compensated in a changing league.
Saquon Barkley's exceptional performance positions him as a serious MVP contender, amplifying discussions about the undervaluation of elite running backs in the NFL.
Promising teams like the 49ers and Commanders face significant setbacks due to injuries and performance issues, highlighting the unpredictable dynamics of the league.
Deep dives
Saquon Barkley's MVP Candidacy
Saquon Barkley's recent performances position him as a contender for the MVP award, especially after his impressive 255-yard rushing game on national television. This performance has put him 207 yards ahead of Derrick Henry in the rushing race, highlighting Barkley's dominance in the league. His contract situation has also sparked discussions, as he is among those players who are undervalued in the current market, earning significantly less than lesser-known players. The conversation suggests that the Giants' decision to not give him a larger contract may backfire, as his abilities are pivotal for any team vying for playoff success.
Reevaluating Running Back Values
There is a growing concern regarding the valuation of running backs in the NFL, as star players like Josh Jacobs and Derrick Henry struggle to secure fair compensation for their talent. The discussion touches on the absurdity of Derrick Henry receiving only $9 million guaranteed despite being a standout performer. This reality prompts a reevaluation of how teams assess the value of running backs, with the acknowledgment that some players, like Barkley, are worth a much higher salary due to their unique skill sets. The notion is that while not all free agent backs merit huge contracts, a select few, including Barkley, clearly do.
Challenges Facing NFL Teams
Teams like the 49ers and the Washington Commanders have encountered significant difficulties recently, with injuries and performance inconsistencies impacting their seasons. The 49ers, in particular, have seen key players like Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle sidelined, affecting their overall game strategy. Similarly, the Commanders' young quarterback appears to be struggling with both accuracy and confidence, raising concerns about their long-term potential. These situations illustrate the unpredictable nature of the NFL, where a combination of injuries and team dynamics can quickly derail promising seasons.
Jim and Peter break down how Saquon Barkley has jumped into the MVP conversation after Sunday night’s explosion, how promising teams like the Commanders and 49ers are now struggling in the second half, and what went wrong with Daniel Jones and the Giants.
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