The Eagles decided to back down from making history in week 18. Not only did they have the possibility to break the rushing record with Saquon Barkley but they also could’ve made a strong case for him to win the MVP.
I Disagreed Completely With The Decision To Rest By The Eagles
Breaking the NFL rushing record is something that should be held with more honor. It is not just a running back record. The Eagles have had an elite offensive line over the past three or four years and seeing them shy away from achieving that record doesn’t seem right. I understand the importance of championships but I also believe in the importance of NFL records and the rushing record may be the most important one of them all. There is probably an argument that breaking the rushing record is comparable to winning a Lombardi trophy.
I don’t like the idea that the Eagles couldn’t have achieved both milestones in the same run. Resting the players is not necessarily the “right” choice in terms of putting the team first.
I think the team would be in a great spot mentally right now if they had that achievement of breaking the record. Just take a look at how Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans finished the regular season. Without a doubt, that was a special moment that they won’t forget.
I Think The Momentum From That Play Could Help In Their Playoff Matchup In Just Four Days.
The Eagles are going to rely on Saquon and this offensive line heavily in this matchup vs the Packers. I get that they want their players to be well rested, but after the Giants allowed 176-yards to Saquon in their first matchup, I think they could have done it safely and efficiently in the first half.
I align much more with the decisions made by the Detroit Lions and Dan Campbell to play in their “meaningless” game vs the 49ers. They Understand that each game matters in the process of becoming a great team. The postgame speech from Campbell says it all.
The Eagles have their sights set on a Lombardi trophy. Although, they might just have the toughest road. The NFC is a strong conference. Getting through the NFC is one thing. Getting out of the NFC and then beating the AFC champion is another.
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