Saquon Barkley knew what was going to happen this year. After rattling off arguably the greatest season by a running back in NFL history, after powering the Eagles on a memorable Super Bowl run, Barkley knew defenses would sell out to stop him in 2025.

“That’s going to be the theme for this year,” Barkley said last week. “You’d be a fool if you’re going to let us walk into whatever stadium, whether it’s the Linc or your stadium, and your focal point is not stopping the run. If that’s the case, we’re going to burn you for it.”

“If you don’t stack the box,” Barkley added, “I’m going to make you pay for it.”

So far, the Cowboys and Chiefs have heeded that warning. In Weeks 1 and 2, Barkley faced a heavy box (seven or more defenders) on 85% of his rushes, per TruMedia, via The Athletic .

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