Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley made an emphatic return to MetLife Stadium on Sunday, leading his new team to a dominant 28-3 victory over the New York Giants. Barkley's performance – 176 rushing yards, a touchdown and several big runs – reminded him of what his former squad was willing to give up last offseason.

Barkley acknowledged the mixed emotions throughout the week, particularly when he saw Giants fans burning his jersey in the parking lot. “That was crazy,” he said, recalling the moment. “I've seen my jersey burnt on social media, but as far as timing… I've never experienced anything like that in my life.”

Despite the distraction, Barkley remained tight-lipped. His connection to the Giants, the team that drafted him, was clear in his postgame comments. “I’m grateful for the organization,” he said. “They are the team that chose me. I still have nothing but love and respect for the boys there.” Still, he made it clear that he is fully committed to the Eagles, adding: “I'm happy to be an Eagle and the most important thing is that “We achieved a victory in the division today.”

The fan reception was harsh, but it didn't affect Barkley's concentration. When asked if the booing affected him, Barkley took it in stride, calling it “a compliment” and remarking, “That's how I took it.”

Barkley's teammates also recognized the importance of the duel. Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown had encouraged Barkley before the game to keep a cool head, reminding him, “If I make a big play, it's just another play and there's more to be made.”

Barkley did just that, capping his performance with a 55-yard run that showcased his speed, reaching speeds of over 22 miles per hour. “J-Pin (Giants safety Jason Pinnock) was moving,” Barkley said of the run. “I just remember looking up and he had his head down, he was moving.”

Giants defensive back Dexter Lawrence, a former teammate of Barkley's, expressed nothing but respect for the running back despite the vitriol from fans. “I know what kind of player he was for this organization and who he was for me, so I have nothing but respect for him,” Lawrence said.

While the Giants' defense struggled to contain Barkley, his former quarterback Daniel Jones admitted it was difficult to see Barkley succeed for the opponent. “He's obviously a good player and we know that very well,” Jones said.

For Barkley, the day wasn't just about personal success; It was about contributing to the Eagles' victory and looking forward. “At the end of the day we won the game,” Barkley said. “We still left some food out there… Even in games like this, you can go back and learn from it and get better.”

With this game behind him, Barkley made it clear that he is focused on the future. “I care about the team and I’m happy that my teammates are getting representation,” he said, thinking about his satisfaction with the win rather than individual stats.

For now, Barkley and the Eagles are turning their attention to the next challenge: continuing their strong season and chasing the championship. The Giants do have serious questions to answer and an offense to fix if they want to be competitive at all this season.