The Facts: Injured on Sept. 22, Barkley was ruled out this week against the Vikings. That's two games. But there is a realistic chance he's ready to play against the Patriots on Thursday night, and at the very least, he will be good in Week 7 against the Cardinals.

Diehards Line: Thanks to his freakish nature and his diligent rehab, Barkley is on a path to beating initial reports suggesting a timetable of anywhere from six to eight weeks (and in some cases longer). It was a good sign that he returned to practice in a limited fashion on Friday. Previously, he had worked on the side but in view of reporters. Barkley, in this exclusive interview with NFL Network, was asked if it's possible that he plays on Thursday. "I think so. I think so," Barkley said. "Just continue to attack rehab in the right way and when it's meant to be, it's meant to be. ... To be able to have the opportunity to play against a team like that, on Thursday night, go to New England, would be dope. ..." We will, of course, be following his progress closely.