Ja’Marr Chase had an incredible season with the Cincinnati Bengals, but it wasn’t enough to secure a playoff spot, marking the team’s second consecutive year missing the postseason. As Super Bowl LIX approaches, Chase is looking ahead, revealing which player he hopes will shine in the big game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles.
Chase made it clear he’s not a Chiefs fan. In a candid moment, he expressed his support for Saquon Barkley, stating, “Everyone knows I’m not a KC fan, so I’m hoping Saquon rushes for like 200 this game.” This comment hints at a potential rooting interest for the Eagles in the championship matchup, showcasing Chase’s competitive spirit and camaraderie with fellow players.
Expectations for the Super Bowl
The Bengals receiver expects a well-balanced contest, noting, “I think overall it would be a great game, just because both sides have great players.” The Eagles, in particular, boast one of the league’s top defenses, finishing the NFL regular season ranked second overall. This sets the stage for an exciting showdown, where both teams will look to showcase their strengths.
Barkley is set to play in his first Super Bowl and just his second career postseason since entering the league in 2018. He had a dominant regular season, racking up 2,005 rushing yards on 345 carries—both career highs. His performance this season has not only made him a key player for the Eagles but also a player to watch in the Super Bowl.
Can Barkley Rush for 200 Yards in the Super Bowl?
Barkley already proved he can hit that mark, rushing for 205 yards on 26 carries against the Rams in the Divisional Round. However, he was held to 118 yards in the NFC Championship against the Commanders. During the regular season, he recorded two 200-yard games, both against the Rams, and has five total postseason touchdowns so far. This raises the question: can he replicate that success on the biggest stage of them all?
The anticipation surrounding Barkley’s performance is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can reach that elusive 200-yard milestone in the Super Bowl. With the stakes so high, every yard will count, and Barkley will need to tap into his full potential to help his team secure victory.
Other Running Backs Who Have Rushed for 200 Yards in the Playoffs
Before Barkley, only eight running backs had ever rushed for 200 yards in a playoff game. His performance now makes him the ninth, placing him ahead of former Commanders back Timmy Smith and just behind Keith Lincoln of the Chargers. No player had reached the milestone since 2020, making Barkley’s achievement even more significant.
Here’s a list of the running backs who have accomplished this feat in playoff history:
Player Name | Team | Yards | Year |
Eric Dickerson | Rams | 248 | 1986 |
Raheem Mostert | 49ers | 220 | 2020 |
Lamar Smith | Dolphins | 209 | 2000 |
Keith Lincoln | Chargers | 206 | 1964 |
Saquon Barkley | Eagles | 205 | 2024 |
Timmy Smith | Commanders | 204 | 1988 |
Freeman McNeil | Jets | 202 | 1983 |
Lawrence McCutcheon | Rams | 202 | 1975 |
Ryan Grant | Packers | 201 | 2008 |
As the Super Bowl draws near, fans are buzzing with excitement. Will Barkley rise to the occasion? Can he put on a show for the ages? These questions linger as we gear up for one of the most anticipated matchups in recent memory. With Chase cheering him on from the sidelines, all eyes will be on Barkley to see if he can deliver a performance worthy of the big stage.
The anticipation is electric, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. It’s not just a game; it’s a chance for glory, for history, and for unforgettable moments. Let’s get ready for Super Bowl LIX!