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As Barkley goes, so go the Giants – the question is, can their star running back go this weekend?

New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs with the ball against the Washington Commanders during the first half at MetLife Stadium.
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs with the ball against the Washington Commanders during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Photo by Rich Barnes /USA TODAY Sports

Anyone thinking about betting on the Philadelphia Eagles to extend their NFL-best record to 12-1 this weekend might want to do it now.

The spread in their game against division rival New York Giants is sure to grow if Saquon Barkley is ruled out.

Don Brennan’s daily hit on the world of sports betting. Whether you’re new to sports gambling or an experienced wagerer, this newsletter offers trustworthy insights into the odds game. 19+. Please gamble responsibly.

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The Giants, currently a 7-to-7.5 point underdog with most sportsbooks, added their star running back to the injury report on Thursday with a neck injury.

Coach Brian Daboll confirmed Friday morning that Barkley would be limited again at practice later in the final day of on-field preparation.

“Week 14, neck’s a little sore,” Daboll said at his media availability, adding that he hopes Barkley can play but is “probably going to see” regarding his status for Sunday.

The 25-year-old Barkley has been plagued by injury problems since breaking into the NFL four seasons ago with 1,307 rushing yards and a league-high 2,028 yards from scrimmage.

Finally healthy again this season, he has played in all Giants games for the first time since he was a rookie, and he’s rediscovered his form.

Barkley is presently the league’s fourth leading rusher with 1,055 yards and fifth in scrimmage yards with 1,296.

And as is the case with most prolific players, as he goes, so go the Giants.

In games where Barkley has rushed for 83 yards or more, New York is 5-0.

When he hasn’t reached that plateau, the Giants are 2-4-1.

Barkley has been quiet of late, averaging just 41.3 yards rushing in the last three games, a span that has seen the Giants go 0-2-1.

If he plays, Barkley will be counted on as much as ever against the Eagles, who have the No. 2 ranked defence in total yards allowed and are No. 1 in passing yards surrendered, but rank 17th in rushing yards allowed.

Despite his lofty season numbers, Barkley is tied for 18th shortest MVP odds at +5,000 with Dalvin Cook and Deebo Samuel.

Given the magnitude of this game for the Giants and their playoff hopes, he will surely do everything he can to suit up.

But if he can’t go, expect the Eagles to spot the G-Men more points than they are right now.

-Don Brennan

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