Giants coach Brian Daboll shared hope that star running back Saquon Barkley could suit up for the team’s Thursday night showdown with the 49ers, despite suffering a sprained ankle in Week 2 against Arizona.
When asked at his Tuesday press conference whether Barkley would miss the game against San Francisco, Daboll provided a positive update, going as far as to call his star back a “quick healer” who is feeling a lot better two days after suffering the injury.
“I’m not saying he’s out yet. He’s a quick healer. I’m not saying he’s in or he’s out,” said Daboll. “We are going to take it all the way up to Thursday with him. He feels a lot better today. I just talked to him.”
Brian Daboll says that he's not ready to rule out Saquon Barkley for Thursday and that Saquon feels a lot better today: pic.twitter.com/ywRJMr7TVX
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) September 19, 2023
While the team was cautiously optimistic that Barkley can suit up, the pivotal piece of the Giants’ offense faces an uphill battle to be ready on the short week.
Barkley had an impactful role in the club’s come-from-behind win over Arizona, scoring two second half touchdowns. Through two games, the veteran back has rushed for 114 yards while hauling in nine receptions for 41 yards.
As of Tuesday, the Giants are 10.5-point road underdogs at SI Sportsbook, with the total points sitting at 44.5. If the talented back can play it greatly improves the Giants’ chances of hanging with a powerful 49ers club that is 2–0 to start the season.
