If Saquon Barkley had scored on those 11 occasions when he was tackled at the one-yard line, the NFL MVP race might look very different today. The New York Giants’ star running back has been a consistent force on the field, displaying his elite speed, power, and vision. However, a string of near-miss plays where he was tackled just shy of the end zone has overshadowed what could have been an even more spectacular season. Had he managed to punch in those critical one-yard touchdowns, the conversation around the league would likely be focused on Barkley as one of the leading MVP candidates.
Barkley’s 2024 season has been one of his best, with impressive statistics in both rushing and receiving. His ability to break through tackles, make defenders miss, and gain yards after contact has kept defenses on edge. However, the failure to convert on those 11 one-yard opportunities has cost him valuable touchdowns and, by extension, a stronger argument for MVP consideration. Each of those missed chances could have added six points to his already impressive totals, making him an even more dominant presence in the conversation. While Barkley has remained productive, his touchdown count is a critical aspect of MVP voting, and those near-misses have held him back.
Had Barkley capitalized on those 11 opportunities, his stats would not only be more eye-catching but could also have swung the Giants’ win-loss record in his favor. Touchdowns are often the most decisive factor in MVP voting, and Barkley, a dynamic playmaker, would likely have solidified himself as the focal point of his team’s offense. With a stronger touchdown total, the Giants’ chances of making a playoff run would have been enhanced, further elevating Barkley’s case. In a crowded MVP race, every score matters, and those missed chances at the goal line are arguably the biggest barrier between Barkley and that coveted award.
While Barkley’s individual play has been extraordinary, his near-scoring failures have also exposed some of the team’s struggles. The Giants’ offensive line has faced its own challenges, often failing to get the push needed on short-yardage plays. This has led to Barkley being stopped just short of the end zone on several occasions. However, this also highlights just how impressive Barkley’s performances have been despite the lack of ideal blocking. Even with the team’s issues in this area, he has still managed to remain among the league’s top performers. If those 11 situations had played out differently, Barkley’s MVP case would be even more formidable.
In the end, Barkley’s 2024 season has been a reminder of how small margins can have a huge impact on an MVP campaign. Had he scored on those 11 plays, he would undoubtedly be in the running for the league’s most prestigious individual honor. His all-around game, combined with a more prolific touchdown count, would make him the centerpiece of the Giants’ offense and a standout in the NFL at large. As it stands, though, those missed opportunities will likely be the difference between Barkley and the MVP title he so richly deserves.