The first week of the NFL season has come and gone, and two players who stood out with their strong performances were Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants and Joe Mixon of the Cincinnati Bengals. Both running backs demonstrated their skill and versatility on the field, earning them the title of Week 1 Players of the Week.
Saquon Barkley, the second overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, has been a consistent force for the Giants since his rookie season. In Week 1, he showed why he is considered one of the best running backs in the league. Barkley rushed for over 100 yards, displaying his speed and agility. He also proved to be a reliable receiver out of the backfield, catching several passes for significant gains. His performance was a bright spot for the Giants, who struggled in other areas.
Barkley’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact is what sets him apart from other running backs. His strength and balance allow him to stay on his feet even when defenders are trying to bring him down. This was evident in Week 1, as he consistently gained extra yards after initial contact.
Meanwhile, Joe Mixon of the Bengals also had an impressive performance in Week 1. Mixon, who is entering his fourth season in the NFL, rushed for over 100 yards and scored a touchdown. He also caught several passes out of the backfield, showing his versatility as a dual-threat running back.
Mixon’s performance was particularly impressive considering the Bengals’ offensive line struggles. Despite facing constant pressure from the defense, Mixon was able to find holes and gain positive yards. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field was a key factor in his success.
Both Barkley and Mixon showed in Week 1 why they are considered among the top running backs in the NFL. Their ability to run the ball effectively and contribute in the passing game makes them valuable assets for their respective teams. If they can continue to perform at this level, they will undoubtedly be in the conversation for the league’s top honors at the end of the season.
In conclusion, Week 1 of the NFL season was highlighted by strong performances from Saquon Barkley and Joe Mixon. Both players demonstrated their skill and versatility, earning them the title of Players of the Week. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see if they can maintain this high level of play.