In two weeks, running back LeSean McCoy might stop to check out the NFL playoffs. He'll see other running backs like Seattle's Marshawn Lynch and Baltimore's Ray Rice, who were just named to the Pro Bowl squads on Wednesday. He could see Minnesota's Adrian Peterson, who is 102 yards from the 2,000-yard mark for the season.
Unfortunately, McCoy knows that he won't be in the playoffs with his teammates. And having the chance to watch some of the league's other elite backs make a run for the Super Bowl will serve as motivation enough for McCoy to not sit on the couch too long.
"I can't speak for everyone on the team, but for myself, once the season is over I'm looking forward to just getting back to training," McCoy said. "I probably won't take too many weeks off or months off this offseason due to the season we just had. I'm just looking forward to getting back on the field and looking forward to going into Training Camp and getting my team together and going into next season."
Last season, McCoy's name was among those elite running backs after his breakthrough campaign. McCoy led the league with 20 total and 17 rushing touchdowns, marks which were also new single-season franchise records. McCoy had a career-best 1,309 rushing yards and 1,624 total yards from scrimmage. He was rewarded with a Pro Bowl nomination, All-Pro recognition and a contract extension which paid him as one of the league's top backs.
The 2012 season has not gone as planned for the Eagles and the same can be said for McCoy. After missing just two games in his first three seasons, McCoy was sidelined for four games with a concussion. He returned in fine form last Sunday and had 122 yards from scrimmage. For the season, McCoy has 795 rushing yards and 312 receiving yards. However, McCoy has actually scored more receiving touchdowns (3) than rushing touchdowns (2).
"I've just got to work hard and stay healthy," McCoy said. "Half of the battle is staying healthy in this league."
The Eagles can end the season on a high note win a win over the Giants, which would eliminate New York from playoff contention. The Giants need to win and get some help in order to have the opportunity to defend their Super Bowl crown. McCoy's personal rivalry with the Giants has been well-documented. In seven career games against the Giants, McCoy has 649 rushing yards (5.6 yards per carry) and three touchdowns. He also has 24 receptions for an additional 110 yards.
"It's always big when we play the Giants, especially for myself. I always like to make sure I play my best games against the Giants," McCoy said. "They're a division team. I think winning this game would be big for us to go out with the way our season has gone this year. I guess for next year having some wins over the Giants means a lot. It'll be a big game for us."
McCoy may have to watch the playoffs from the couch this season, but at least he can make sure the Giants are as well.
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