Summary of "Stephen A's Take: Stephen A's Thoughts on the Benching of Saquon Barkley"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Stephen A. Smith Show
• Host/Author: Stephen A. Smith and iHeartPodcasts
• Episode: Stephen A's Take: Stephen A's thoughts on the benching of Saquon Barkley
• Release Date: January 5, 2025

Introduction to Saquon Barkley's Achievements

In this episode, Stephen A. Smith delves deep into the controversial decision by the Philadelphia Eagles to bench their star running back, Saquon Barkley, for the final game of the season. Smith begins by highlighting Barkley's remarkable performance throughout the year, emphasizing his significant contribution to the team.

“What Saquon Barkley has accomplished this year is incredible, no doubt about it.” ([01:05])

Barkley's Near Record and Benching Controversy

Smith points out that Barkley is just 101 rushing yards shy of breaking Eric Dickerson's all-time single-season rushing record. Despite this near-milestone, the Eagles opted to rest Barkley to ensure his health for the playoffs, a decision that Smith finds frustrating given Barkley's extraordinary season.

“But he's sitting out the last game of the season because the Eagles want to make sure that he's ready for the playoffs and he doesn't get injured.” ([01:10])

Critique of the Running Back Position in the NFL

A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to critiquing the NFL's treatment of the running back position. Smith argues that regardless of performance, running backs are undervalued based on their age, leading to a lack of long-term investment in their careers.

“It's the running back position. It's the one position in the National Football League where no matter what numbers you produce, no matter how extraordinary your season is, they look at your birth certificate and say, oh, you're 30, you're done.” ([01:30])

Comparison with Other NFL Running Backs

Smith draws parallels between Barkley and other notable running backs like Derrick Henry and Josh Jacobs, emphasizing that Barkley's situation is part of a larger trend of diminishing the role and value of running backs in the league.

“Derrick Henry did it, too. Josh Jacobs did it, too. But especially Saquon Barkley really, really stinks.” ([04:00])

Criticism of the New York Giants Organization

A substantial segment of the episode is dedicated to criticizing the New York Giants' handling of Saquon Barkley. Smith recounts how the Giants publicly undervalued Barkley despite his outstanding performance, comparing the organization to a failing franchise that contaminates its locale.

“That pathetic, moribund franchise that's contaminating the city of New York and all of northern New Jersey worse than the damn swamps and its surrounding areas.” ([02:10])

Smith also criticizes the Giants for their high investment in Daniel Jones, whom he deems as an overpaid quarterback who was ultimately benched and released, suggesting that similar short-sightedness could harm Barkley's career.

“You could have paid Saquon Barkley. He has an opportunity to go up against that team this Sunday, and you're not letting them do it.” ([03:20])

Potential Outcomes and Stakes for the Eagles

Smith discusses the high stakes for the Philadelphia Eagles, emphasizing that the decision to bench Barkley comes with expectations for the team to perform exceptionally in the playoffs. He challenges the Eagles to win the NFC and the Super Bowl to justify their decision.

“Since you made this decision, you better win that. You better win this shit. You better go out there and win the NFC. You better go in the Super Bowl.” ([04:50])

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Concluding his analysis, Stephen A. Smith reiterates the prestige of Barkley's achievements and the missed opportunity for him to break the rushing record. He underscores the broader implications of undervaluing running backs and urges the Eagles to capitalize on their investment by securing postseason success.

“This man, Saquon Barkley, is one of nine players in league history to rush for 2,000 yards in the season.” ([05:20])

Smith leaves listeners with a critical view of the current NFL dynamics, advocating for better recognition and investment in running back talents like Saquon Barkley.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Stephen A. Smith: “What Saquon Barkley has accomplished this year is incredible, no doubt about it.” ([01:05])
• Stephen A. Smith: “It's the running back position... Oh, you're 30, you're done.” ([01:30])
• Stephen A. Smith: “That pathetic, moribund franchise... worse than the damn swamps...” ([02:10])
• Stephen A. Smith: “You could have paid Saquon Barkley... you're not letting them do it.” ([03:20])
• Stephen A. Smith: “Since you made this decision, you better win that... you better go in the Super Bowl.” ([04:50])
• Stephen A. Smith: “This man, Saquon Barkley, is one of nine players in league history to rush for 2,000 yards in the season.” ([05:20])

Conclusion

Stephen A. Smith's analysis offers a passionate critique of both the NFL's undervaluation of running backs and the specific handling of Saquon Barkley's exceptional season by the Philadelphia Eagles. Through detailed examination and pointed commentary, Smith underscores the need for a shift in how running backs are perceived and invested in within professional football.