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Bleeding Green Nation fantasy football takes on Saquon Barkley
Every source-backed article insight STACKED has extracted from Bleeding Green Nation about Saquon Barkley.
80
Insights
52
Positive
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Negative
Insight ledger
All Bleeding Green Nation insights about Saquon Barkley
PositiveUsageSep 15, 2026
Sirianni disregarded the notion that Barkley's 42-yard explosive run in Week 1 was an outlier, insisting that explosive plays count just as much as other runs; the head coach emphasized the team's commitment to the run game and that they reap the benefits of sticking with it, noting Barkley is the lead back.PositiveUsageSep 14, 2026
Benefited from Landon Dickerson's blocking on a long run during Week 1's third-down play against Washington. Head coach Nick Sirianni highlighted Dickerson's ability to cave in the side and displace the defensive tackle on this run, demonstrating the value of the guard's power when healthy.PositiveUsageSep 14, 2026
Saquon Barkley accounted for 15 of the Eagles' 18 running back carries in Week 1, establishing himself as the clear lead back.NegativeRoleSep 14, 2026
Barkley largely struggled in Week 1 behind an offensive line that is 'nowhere near what it was in 2024.' While he broke off one long run and put up 'decent numbers otherwise,' the source indicates the new Sean Mannion scheme has not yet improved his productivity relative to last season. The offensive line struggles with both Cam Jurgens and Landon Dickerson injured/struggling directly impacted his performance.PositiveUsageSep 14, 2026
Barkley had a 42-yard run in Week 1 that helped set up a second-quarter score. NFL.com highlights this as one of the big plays that made the difference in the Eagles' win, noting that Philly's offense used a trove of big plays to outlast the Commanders despite offensive line struggles and inconsistency.PositiveUsageSep 14, 2026
Barkley had a 42-yard second-quarter run when the Eagles' offensive line flushed the Commanders' defensive line right, opening a massive hole for Barkley to take off down the middle. The long run set up the Eagles' second touchdown. However, he was later rolled by Sonny Styles on a six-yard sack on the Eagles' second drive of the second half, forcing a second-and-16.PositiveMatchupSep 13, 2026
The source highlights Saquon Barkley as a key matchup advantage for the Eagles in Week 1, noting that Washington has had no answers for him since he joined Philadelphia and that the Eagles will run the ball effectively on this defense.PositiveMatchupSep 13, 2026
Saquon Barkley typically torments the Commanders defense. The source predicts the Eagles will lean into the running game early and often in Week 1, and even if the Eagles' offense doesn't get off to a scintillating start, this game should be winnable for them given Barkley's historical advantage against Washington.PositiveMatchupSep 12, 2026
Barkley has dominated the Commanders since the beginning of the Dan Quinn era in 2024. Over his four games against Washington in that span: Week 11, 2024 (26 carries, 146 yards, 5.6 avg, 2 TD, 2 rec, 52 yards); Week 16, 2024 (29 carries, 150 yards, 5.2 avg, 2 TD); NFC Championship Game (15 carries, 118 yards, 7.9 avg, 3 TD, 1 rec, 4 yards); Week 16, 2025 (21 carries, 132 yards, 1 TD). Over his entire career, Barkley has owned the Commanders, averaging 103.1 yards per game and 1.2 total touchdowns per game through 13 career meetings (including playoffs). The source notes there is reason to believe Barkley can have success on Sunday despite the Commanders' new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones.PositiveRoleSep 12, 2026
Sean Mannion's offensive philosophy centers on the run game as 'the engine' with an emphasis on outside zone blocking; Barkley is positioned as the focal point of this run-first scheme under the new coordinator.PositiveUsageSep 11, 2026
Saquon Barkley is positioned as the centerpiece of the Eagles' Week 1 offensive strategy against Washington. With A.J. Brown gone, the Eagles plan to lean heavily on Barkley in the backfield, exploiting Washington's weak run defense (ranked 27th in opponent yards per rushing attempt last season) and the Eagles' top-five-rated offensive line. Maltepes projects a game script centered on 'defense, Saquon, field position' and recommends Barkley anytime TD at -130 as a strong prop bet.PositiveBreakoutSep 11, 2026
The source argues that Barkley is a buy as a contender because of improved offensive line play and the new wide-zone scheme, despite concerns about the Eagles' offense and Jalen Hurts' adjustment to the new system. The combination of better blocking, Barkley's conditioning, and the scheme fit positions him as a key reason to back the Eagles as contenders.PositiveUsageSep 11, 2026
Barkley's carry volume dropped from 345 in the 2024 regular season to 280 in 2025, but the longer offseason rest following the wild-card playoff exit against San Francisco gave the 29-year-old Barkley more physical and mental recovery. Running backs coach Jemal Singleton emphasized the benefits of this extended layoff, noting Barkley could rest and return refreshed to work in the new system.PositiveRoleSep 11, 2026
The Eagles installed a wide-zone running scheme with Jalen Hurts more frequently lining up under center. Barkley expressed confidence in the system, stating he has 'always been intrigued with this kind of system' and believes 'I have a chance to be really good in this system' and 'it's going to open things that I may have not been able to show in my career.' He consulted with Adrian Peterson on alignment depth (six to eight yards) and Todd Gurley, whose two best seasons came in this same offense where he made first-team All-Pro both years.PositiveRoleSep 11, 2026
Running backs coach Jemal Singleton highlighted Barkley's improved conditioning and ability to stay on the field for more plays during long drives while looking explosive. Singleton emphasized that the fresh legs combined with a revitalized offensive line in the new wide-zone run scheme position Barkley to ascend to the top of the running back class once again.PositiveProjectionSep 11, 2026
The source projects Barkley to have another big season in 2026, citing strong training camp performance and the Eagles' emphasis on the running game when they lean into it. While acknowledging the difficulty of matching his 2024 numbers (345 carries in regular season plus 91 in postseason), the source notes that blocking improvements and Barkley's conditioning after a longer offseason rest should support a resurgence at the top of the running back class.NegativeUsageSep 10, 2026
Saquon Barkley averaged just 3.8 yards per carry over the five-game stretch (2-3 record, 16.2 points per game) following Tank Bigsby's strong 7-carry, 86-yard performance in Week 1 against the Giants. Despite Bigsby's efficiency, the Eagles did not sustain his usage, instead continuing to rely on Barkley despite his declining efficiency. Barkley is also coming off his least efficient season, and the Eagles may need to lean more on complementary players given the offensive scheme transition.PositiveUsageSep 10, 2026
Saquon Barkley's 20-plus-yard runs in 2024 opened the field for Jalen Hurts, and the Eagles are expected to lean into the run game early in 2026. The Eagles have the offensive line to replicate that success, making Barkley a focal point of the early-season offensive strategy under new coordinator Sean Mannion.PositiveProjectionSep 9, 2026
Sirianni expresses confidence in Barkley's ability to succeed in Eagles' new offensive system; Sirianni notes Barkley is the kind of talent that can and would be successful in any scheme. Sirianni couldn't point to one specific training camp moment but cited consistent strong performance throughout camp as evidence of development and confidence for a good year in the new system.PositiveProjectionSep 9, 2026
Barkley is expected to run the ball consistently and productively in Sean Mannion's offense. The source states, 'if Dontayvion Wicks, Hollywood Brown, Elijah Moore and Makai Lemon can help make up for the loss of good ol' What's His Name in New England, and Saquon Barkley can run the ball consistently and productively, there's nothing that can hold this offense back.' The Eagles will have more success running the ball in 2026 than they did a year ago.PositiveMatchupSep 8, 2026
The source identifies Barkley and the Eagles' bigger offensive personnel as the key to attacking Washington's secondary; if Washington remains light to preserve disguise and coverage flexibility, Barkley should make them pay for it. The source recommends the Eagles use condensed formations, stacks, and heavier personnel to force Washington's smaller, competitive defensive backs into traffic and make them tackle, with Barkley positioned as the primary weapon to exploit this weakness.PositiveMatchupSep 8, 2026
Saquon Barkley should have a favorable matchup against Washington's run defense in Week 1. The source notes Washington's edge defenders prioritize pass rush over run defense—specifically K'Lavon Chaisson 'does not play hard vs the run' and wants to get upfield to rush the QB. The Commanders' run defense showed softness up front with safeties taking bad angles and interior defensive line getting moved. The source recommends the Eagles establish the run early with Barkley against light boxes and favorable offensive line numbers, rather than relying on schematic creativity. This is a week to attack Washington's run defense directly.NegativeDepth ChartSep 8, 2026
Listed as the starting running back on the Eagles' Week 1 depth chart ahead of Tank Bigsby and Will Shipley.PositiveProjectionSep 8, 2026
With the O-line healthy in 2026, the source expects a more productive Saquon Barkley. He had only 3 games with 100 or more rushing yards last season and the source states: 'I'll be shocked if he doesn't at least double that total this season.' The success of the Eagles' offense will be dependent on their rushing attack, and the Commanders defense offers an outstanding opportunity to get the run game going in Week 1.PositiveProjectionSep 6, 2026
Running back at age 29 with terrific training camp; primed for big bounce-back year in Sean Mannion's offense after up-and-down 2025 behind banged-up offensive line; takes excellent care of himself and looks locked in during camp; natural fit in new scheme; projection for 1,500+ rushing yards if he plays all 17 games; only nine backs have ever rushed for 1,500 yards after turning 29, only Henry in last 20 years, but source believes Barkley is still that good and will be in that ballpark by January.NegativeRoleSep 4, 2026
Named as one of seven team captains for the 2026 Eagles season; joining Hurts and Lane Johnson as players with four gold stars under their 'C' patches, signifying his fourth consecutive year as captain and leadership standing within the team.PositiveProjectionSep 4, 2026
Barkley had a great summer and seems really locked in after a disappointing 2025 season; the source expects he could have a monster season in 2026 under the new offensive scheme.PositiveRoleSep 3, 2026
Running back entering his second season after setting NFL records in his first year. Barkley is featured in the Eagles' team meeting where coach Nick Sirianni emphasized a process-driven approach, sharing Joshua Medcalf's book 'Chop Wood Carry Water' with the team. Barkley himself quoted the book's theme: 'The danger of comparison. Comparison is stealing joy.' This reflects the Eagles' philosophy of focusing on controllable factors and small improvements rather than comparing performance to previous seasons, positioning Barkley as a key part of the team's process-oriented culture.NegativeProjectionSep 2, 2026
Did not have a great year last season. Offensive line health and age is a concern, though the unit will still be formidable. Despite these concerns, Barkley remains central to Eagles' offensive identity; with Hurts as QB and an elite offensive line, the Eagles are structured as a run-heavy offense unlikely to throw 40 times per game, positioning Barkley as the focal point but with durability questions around the aging line.NegativeProjectionSep 1, 2026
Barkley is subject of an over/under analysis examining whether he will 'explode again' in 2026, suggesting expectations for a repeat or elevated performance following his prior year production with the Eagles.NegativeRoleAug 30, 2026
Barkley is the Eagles' lead running back on the initial 53-man roster.PositiveProjectionAug 29, 2026
Barkley looks poised for another big season and may be involved as a pass-catcher more than ever this year, suggesting expanded offensive usage.NegativeProjectionAug 28, 2026
The source questions whether Barkley can lead a fantasy team's RBs after a significant decline from 125.3 yards per game in 2024 to 71.3 in 2025, despite his 2,005-yard 2024 performance. The source attributes the drop to offensive line injuries and poor playcalling/scheme, and is curious how Barkley will perform in Sean Mannion's offense with a healthy offensive line. The source warns that drafting Barkley as RB1 may lead to fantasy failure, as it did for the source who picked him No. 2 overall and finished 11th in a 12-team league.NegativeRoleAug 27, 2026
Was in position to be tackled for loss by Jalyx Hunt during final camp practice in team drills.PositiveProjectionAug 27, 2026
When the Eagles are good, Barkley has score-from-anywhere potential, making him a key offensive weapon in the team's watchability and upside. His ability to create explosive plays is a major factor in the team's ceiling.PositiveRoleAug 26, 2026
Barkley made an over-the-shoulder touchdown grab with Zack Baun trailing during the public practice, demonstrating receiving ability. He also had chunk gains on completions along the left sideline during a two-minute drive and had a couple nice runs that looked like they would've gone for big gains, though he was also stopped for just a short gain on one rep.NegativeUsageAug 24, 2026
Jalyx Hunt was in prime position for a TFL on Barkley during practice, indicating defensive pressure on the running back.NegativeUsageAug 21, 2026
Fourth-quarter rushing production declined sharply from 2024 to 2025; in 2024, Barkley and the Eagles' offensive line averaged 4.3 yards per carry for 832 rushing yards in the fourth quarter, but in 2025 that collapsed to 376 yards (down 456 yards) at 3.2 yards per carry—a decline attributed to a banged-up offensive line, Barkley's recovery from a career-high 345 carries and 2,005 yards in 2024, and conservative play-calling under Kevin Patullo that lacked motion and passing presence down the middle.NegativeRoleAug 21, 2026
Barkley expressed strong dislike of joint practices, stating 'I hate joint practice, to be honest' and criticizing the ego-driven nature of the format. He noted that while one day is acceptable, joint practices often devolve into 'pushing, the shoving' and immature behavior rather than productive work, though he acknowledged being 'a little troublemaker sometimes' and performing well in the recent Patriots joint practice.PositiveProjectionAug 21, 2026
Ranked in Tier 4 (Rounds 2/3) of Eric Karabell's 2026 running back rankings at #10 overall. Described as 'the veteran here' with Eagles 'intent on reestablishing him as the focal point of the offense,' signaling elevated role and usage expectations for the Philadelphia Eagles back.NegativeProjectionAug 21, 2026
Barkley is coming off his lowest-graded season since 2021 after being stuffed on almost a quarter of his carries, but he was the only running back to take 300 handoffs last year without a fumble. The Eagles seem intent on reestablishing him as the focal point of the offense. He ranks 10th in Eric Karabell's running back tiers for 2026 (Tier 4, Rounds 2/3) and should improve upon what happened last season.NegativeUsageAug 20, 2026
Barkley had a 3-yard run left tackle during practice, after which a skirmish occurred involving Lane Johnson. Hurts then ran in for a touchdown on the next play.PositiveProjectionAug 20, 2026
Lane Johnson expects the Eagles could see 2024-level Saquon Barkley performance in 2026, suggesting optimism about the running back's continued elite production and health heading into the season.PositiveRoleAug 20, 2026
Lane Johnson expects Sean Mannion's outside zone running scheme to unlock Barkley's 2024 form, with the offensive line working to get him involved in the passing game via wide receiver flexes and screen plays. Johnson stated: 'The more productive we are in the run game, stuff feeds off of that. We'll see the big plays, we'll see him flex out at wide receiver, we'll see him in the screen game.' Barkley has had a strong training camp and the Eagles spent significant time on Day 1 of joint practices working on run game and back involvement in the passing game.PositiveUsageAug 19, 2026
Barkley seemed to have a good deal of success in the ground game, with the Eagles' offensive line regularly giving him room to run. Lane Johnson stated, "We will see the Saquon of 2 years ago," praising the running game and screen game approach that stretches the defense sideline to sideline. Barkley also caught a screen pass where he was able to create significant yards after the catch.PositiveRoleAug 19, 2026
Barkley is featured prominently in the Eagles' offensive scheme as the star running back with a hard-nosed blocking unit in front of him. The source notes the Eagles' offense is composed of a unit that blocks in front of Barkley, and the Patriots recognize the Eagles' dominance on both sides of the trenches with their offense centered around Barkley's role. The running game structure under Sean Mannion showed emphasis on Outside Zone and Duo runs during preseason.PositiveInjuryAug 17, 2026
Running back Saquon Barkley was at full participation despite a brief injury scare last week.NegativeRoleAug 15, 2026
Saquon Barkley is listed among the Eagles' key starters who will not play in the preseason opener against the Ravens, as Sean Mannion makes his debut as play caller.NegativeRoleAug 14, 2026
Barkley is a known commodity in the Eagles' new offensive scheme and is expected to be a key part of the running game alongside Tank Bigsby; however, the source notes he is part of the veteran-laden and oft-injured offensive line group that the Eagles will protect from preseason action due to injury concerns.PositiveRoleAug 14, 2026
Barkley has the potential to unlock a new level of performance in the Eagles' new under-center, wide zone rushing attack, which represents a significant schematic shift from the vertical, inside-zone-heavy approach he previously ran; this new system is designed to play to his strengths in a way the prior offensive scheme did not.PositiveRoleAug 14, 2026
Barkley led the NFL in EPA on read-option carries last season. Under new coordinator Sean Mannion's system, which emphasizes under-center formations and wide-zone rushing concepts (a departure from the previous inside-zone-heavy approach), Barkley may unlock a new level of production. The Eagles' shift toward wide-zone and stretch concepts is new to Barkley, and combined with Hurts' improved quickness and more frequent under-center operation, there is potential for Barkley to thrive in the new offensive scheme.PositiveProjectionAug 13, 2026
It's become routine for Barkley to have good-looking runs in each practice. He looks primed for another big year, with the run game as a whole showing promise.NegativeInjuryAug 13, 2026
Barkley was getting looked at by a trainer during practice, but there is currently no indication of anything serious. However, it's something to monitor. Despite this, Barkley continues to have good-looking runs in each practice and looks primed for another big year.PositiveProjectionAug 13, 2026
Ranked No. 34 on the 2026 NFL Top 100 list (players' vote), reflecting peer recognition of his elite status among running backs.PositiveRoleAug 13, 2026
RB Saquon Barkley has been very engaged in camp, looked great, and has been vocal with teammates, talking trash and pushing them to be their best. The source notes 'There is value in this type of competitive connection. Barkley is pushing his teammates to be their best,' indicating strong leadership and competitive presence that may benefit team performance.NegativeDepth ChartAug 12, 2026
Listed as the clear RB1 on the Eagles' first team-issued depth chart ahead of the 2026 season, with Tank Bigsby, Will Shipley, Dameon Pierce, Carson Steele, and Ja'Quinden Jackson behind him in the running back rotation.PositiveUsageAug 11, 2026
Barkley seemed to have some good runs during the Eagles' heavy emphasis on run plays today, including when the offense was backed up against their own goal line.NegativeUsageAug 10, 2026
Barkley threw a shove at Andrew Mukuba after the end of a long run, demonstrating competitive intensity during practice.PositiveRoleAug 10, 2026
RB Saquon Barkley is a tremendous player and a focal point of the Eagles offense according to OC Sean Mannion. Everything the offense does is built around putting Saquon in the best position to succeed; the team carries this mindset into everything they do schematically, what they rep at practice, and all the different facets. As they build the run game and formations, the play-action game and keeper game play off of Saquon's involvement, and all these elements marry together to maximize his skill set.PositiveRoleAug 10, 2026
The source reports that Barkley made his presence felt in camp, getting animated after a short touchdown run and showing nifty footwork with a jump cut and shaking defensive tackle Jordan Davis. Barkley believes the new system can open up things for him that he hasn't been able to fully showcase in his career. Offensive coordinator Sean Mannion confirmed that Saquon is a focal point of the offense.PositiveProjectionAug 9, 2026
Barkley looks as good as ever in training camp.NegativeUsageAug 9, 2026
The Eagles running back was featured in multiple scrimmage run plays during training camp. Barkley had his first carry stopped by Zack Baun, was touched up by Jihaad Campbell on another play, and on a subsequent play cut to the left and ran through a vacated gap after Campbell hesitated on a run blitz. His involvement in the scrimmage demonstrates continued offensive usage in the Eagles' running game.PositiveUsageAug 9, 2026
Had some good runs today with the offensive line opening up holes for him; got freed up for a long touchdown run when the Eagles' offense was backed up against their own end zone, and found the end zone on a short run to cap off a successful drive. Showed competitive intensity after scoring by getting in Cooper DeJean's face and engaging in a playful shoving match with Quinyon Mitchell.NegativeRoleAug 7, 2026
Barkley was present at practice as a special guest and dapped up new Sixer Jaylen Brown at one point.NegativeRoleAug 7, 2026
Saquon Barkley was present and engaged during Eagles training camp, providing commentary on team acquisitions and indicating his involvement in the early-season evaluation process.NegativeRoleAug 4, 2026
Eagles running back Saquon Barkley provided a surprise for a military family attending Saturday's Eagles training camp practice.NegativeRoleAug 3, 2026
Barkley ran a stretch run to the right side early in Monday's practice where Chance Campbell was in good position to stop him.PositiveUsageAug 2, 2026
OC Sean Mannion indicated Saquon Barkley is capable of being utilized out of the backfield as a pass catcher in the new scheme; running backs will have blocking duties and other assignments based on defensive looks, but all are capable pass catchers and good route runners who can be deployed based on protection needs. The offense aims to be as multiple and flexible as possible formationally.NegativeUsageAug 1, 2026
Barkley was involved in multiple plays during practice. Hurts threw a checkdown to Barkley that got knocked down by Jeremiah Trotter Jr. He was also featured on a play-action run where Jordan Davis played the run before pursuing Hurts. Limited but continued involvement in the offense.PositiveProjectionJul 31, 2026
Barkley is positioned as a primary beneficiary of the Eagles' new offense under Sean Mannion. After dropping from 2,005 rushing yards in 2024 to 1,140 yards last season due to offensive line injuries and a predictable gameplan, the source predicts Barkley will exceed 1,000 yards in 2026. The new scheme is designed to stress defenses and reduce predictability, allowing the running game to return to elite production levels.PositiveProjectionJul 31, 2026
Barkley is a key beneficiary of the Eagles' new offense under Sean Mannion. After dropping from 2,005 rushing yards in 2024 to 1,140 yards last season due to offensive line injuries and a predictable scheme, the source projects Barkley will exceed 1,000 yards in 2026. The new scheme is less predictable, provides more blocking help, and allows the run and pass game to work off one another, addressing the primary factors that depressed his production.PositiveRoleJul 31, 2026
Barkley is adapting to the Eagles' new system in training camp with a competitor's mindset. He stated: "The way you take it is a little bit different … as a competitor, you welcome that challenge." This reflects his willingness to embrace the learning curve and adjust to Philadelphia's offensive scheme.NegativeRoleJul 31, 2026
Barkley is adapting to a new offensive system under first-time coordinator Sean Mannion in 2026. The terminology, structure, and way to attack defenses are all different from his previous scheme. For a running back, the shift from quarterback under center versus shotgun presents a fundamental change in how to conduct business. Barkley described it as 'starting from scratch' and 'learn a new language, get familiar with a new system,' but he is embracing the challenge as a competitor.PositiveRoleJul 31, 2026
Barkley is adapting to the Eagles' system in training camp with a competitive mindset. He acknowledged the learning curve—"The way you take it is a little bit different"—but framed it as a welcome challenge as a competitor, signaling readiness to execute the team's offensive scheme.NegativeRoleJul 31, 2026
Saquon Barkley is adapting to a new offensive system under new coordinator Sean Mannion in 2026. The terminology, structure, and way to attack defenses are all different from his prior system. For a running back, the shift between quarterback under center versus shotgun presents a significant adjustment. Barkley is embracing the challenge, saying 'I think it's pretty cool that you start from scratch, learn a new language, get familiar with a new system. It's fun' and noting that as a competitor, he welcomes the challenge.PositiveUsageJul 30, 2026
Found a crease in the left side of the offensive line to find daylight during rushing attack drills, prompting Sean Mannion to raise his hands to signal a touchdown. Contributed to what Elijah Moore. Hurts noted as the best part of the Eagles' offense—their rushing attack.PositiveUsageJul 30, 2026
Found a crease in the left side of the offensive line to find daylight during 11-on-11 drills, prompting Sean Mannion to raise his hands to signal a touchdown.PositiveRoleJul 30, 2026
Running back praised Carter's contract as well-deserved and expressed excitement for the next level Carter will reach this season. Barkley emphasized that Carter 'hasn't even scratched' his potential, suggesting significant untapped upside. Barkley also credited the Eagles organization and GM Howie Roseman for their effective roster-building and contract approach, which he attributed to the team's sustained success and playoff consistency.PositiveProjectionJul 30, 2026
Running back and teammate who expressed strong confidence in Carter's future trajectory. Barkley stated Carter 'hasn't even scratched' his potential and called the contract 'well-deserved,' emphasizing 'you guys don't understand how scary it actually can be' regarding what Carter is capable of achieving. Barkley also used Carter's deal as evidence of the Eagles' organizational excellence under Howie Roseman, noting the team's consistent success (citing Dallas Goedert's nine-year tenure with only one playoff miss) reflects their approach to roster building and contract management.NegativeRoleJul 30, 2026
Barkley was on the field during Day 1 of Eagles training camp. During one sequence, Hurts and Barkley were on different pages on a running play, resulting in a botched play that highlighted the learning curve the new offense is working through.