After seven seasons, Philadelphia Eagles superstar Saquon Barkley is Super-Bowl-bound

By Nick Antonakas

Making it to the Super Bowl is difficult, even for players as talented as Running Back Saquon Barkley.

A moment where talent becomes secondary to mindset for players on the road to the big game is Media Week. Being exposed to the overwhelming excitement of fans and the game-like atmosphere at the Caesars Superdome for Opening Night could be daunting to say the least.

Not for Barkley.

“The emotions right now are kind of calm,” Barkley said with a focused gaze. “I think that will grow as the game gets closer, but right now, I’m just enjoying the moment and taking it all in.”

When Philadelphia faced the Chiefs in the Super Bowl just two years ago, Barkley was still with the Eagles NFC East rival, the New York Giants. When adding Barkley this past offseason, the Eagles hoped it would allow them to take that next step.

So far, it’s panned out.

Barkley is coming from a historic regular season, cracking 2,000 yards and cashing in 15 total touchdowns. Barkley already has five touchdowns in the Eagles three playoff games this postseason and has been a pivotal piece of Philly’s offense.

Nesting with the birds must have been the main factor allowing Barkley to soar, right? Not according to him.

“I don’t think it’s ironic that the year that I try to really hone in and grow my faith, I happen to have my best season,” Barkley said.

While Bible studies with his agent have helped him grow closer to his faith, Barkley humbly explained that he’s still trying to challenge himself to learn scripture.

“I think that’s what religion and faith is. It’s having a relationship with God and understanding who Jesus is,” Barkley said. “And that’s what I’m trying to do.”

Barkley and the Eagles’ hard work will be tested this Sunday against the Chiefs. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. at the Superdome.