The New York Giants lost 31-26 to the Detroit Lions on Sunday, and Saquon Barkley is not happy with himself for the effort he gave on a play that was ruled a fumble.
Midway through the first quarter, Daniel Jones was under pressure and tried to get rid of the ball just as he was being tackled by throwing it to Barkley. Barkley probably thought the pass was going to be ruled incomplete or intentional grounding, so he didn’t go after the ball. Barkley’s lack of effort allowed Devon Kennard to pick up the ball and run in for a touchdown since the play was ruled a fumble.
That touchdown put Detroit up 7-0 and got the Giants in an early hole.
After the game, Barkley expressed disappointment in himself and said he needs to give better effort.
A lesson in accountability by Saquon Barkley. “No excuse. That’s not who I am. That’s not the type of player I am. That’s not the reason I’m captain. I’ve got to have better effort on that play.” pic.twitter.com/B1Dj8UuImP
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) October 27, 2019
Barkley was commended by many for the leadership he displayed by taking responsibility for his effort.
Saquon Barkley super-accountable. Says he “lacked effort” on the fumble returned for TD. Blitzer Jarred Davis was his man. Barkley looking at himself where he can be better. Setting strong example of accountability. #Giants
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) October 27, 2019
He may only be 22 and in his second year in the league, but you can understand why Barkley is a captain with that kind of leadership.
Barkley had 64 rushing yards, 79 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown.
