Saquon Barkley is off and running toward big things in 2017. On Saturday, the Penn State Nittany Lions destroyed Akron at home by a score of 52-0. Barkley ran all over the Zips and was able to be spelled early on the day.
In fact, the running back had a light workload with just 14 carries on the day. Even more impressively is that fact that he still rushed for 172 yards and two touchdowns for a 12.3 average overall. He also 54 yards on 3 receptions.
His highlight of the day was busting out an 80-yard run. He showed the speed to match his power and it was like watching a man among boys with his ability to carve up a much inferior opponent at home.
If he wants to be right there in the Heisman discussion, this was a fantastic start. Truthfully, he could have taken more carries and had a ridiculous day, but he’ll be fresher for what will ultimately lie ahead.
Penn State will play host to Pittsburgh next week. Barkley had a big day on the ground against the Panthers last season. He finished that game with four touchdowns. Another four touchdown performance here will only further his ascension.