The Atlanta Falcons went into Minnesota hoping to avoid an 0-2 start that would have put them in a difficult spot early in the season. After a Week 1 performance in which the defense didn’t play particularly well, the unit stepped up in a big way against the Vikings. And on the offensive side, Bijan Robinson had what’s becoming his annual breakout performance — bouncing back in a major way after a rough opening week on the ground.
“Robinson rushed the ball 22 times for 143 yards in Sunday's 22-6 win over the Vikings. He added three receptions on five targets for 25 yards,” CBS Sports wrote.
Robinson was dominant in the game — there was no doubt about that. From the opening drive, it was clear the Falcons were committed to establishing the run. His performance was so impactful that he drew comparisons to two of the NFL’s most elite running backs.
“Bijan Robinson is as important to the Atlanta Falcons as Saquon Barkley is to the Eagles and Christian McCaffrey is to the 49ers,” CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones said.
That’s a massive comparison for Robinson in just his third year, as he’s still growing into his role. But even before the season began, he was already getting big-time recognition — including from one of the players he’s now being compared to.
“There's nobody who's able to cut like Bijan in the NFL. There's not. You can go argue your mom about that. ... Trust me. I love myself and I think I have great cuts. There's nobody. ... It's finna get scary for a lot of people,” Barkley said.
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Robinson also spent time this past summer training with McCaffrey, learning key aspects of the game — including the importance of recovery and taking care of his body.
This season is shaping up to be a big one for Robinson. He’s already beginning to assert himself as one of the best running backs in the league. Being compared to two of the top names at the position this early in his career is nearly unheard of — but that’s how real his talent is. Now, he’ll look to keep proving why he’s one of the most reliable and explosive backs in the NFL.