Editing Barry Sanders (section)

==Professional career==
{{NFL predraft
|    height ft = 5
|    height in = 7 5/8
|       weight = 203
|         dash = 4.37
|         note = All values from [[Pro Day]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.profootballhof.com/news/hall-recall-barry-sanders/ |title=Hall Recall: Barry Sanders |website=profootballhof.com |access-date=August 22, 2021}}</ref>
}}

=== Detroit Lions (1989–1998) ===
[[File:Silverdome 2.jpg|thumb|With the [[Detroit Lions]] from 1989 to 1998, Sanders played home games at [[Pontiac Silverdome]].|alt=A picture of the Pontiac Silverdome in 2011.]]
Sanders, a college junior, was originally ineligible for the [[National Football League Draft|NFL Draft]]. However, [[Oklahoma State Cowboys football|Oklahoma State]] had been under investigation by the [[NCAA]] for recruiting violations. On the first day of 1989, the NCAA placed the Cowboys on four years' probation.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1989-01-07 |title=Oklahoma St. Is Placed On Probation |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/01/07/sports/oklahoma-st-is-placed-on-probation.html |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=The New York Times|agency=Associated Press |language=en-US}}</ref> If Sanders had stayed for his senior season, his games would not have been televised live, and he would not be able to play in a bowl game. Due to these circumstances, NFL commissioner [[Pete Rozelle]] allowed Sanders to enter the draft.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Litsky |first=Frank |date=1989-04-05 |title=Rozelle Rules That Sanders Can Enter the N.F.L. Draft |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/04/05/sports/rozelle-rules-that-sanders-can-enter-the-nfl-draft.html |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=The New York Times |language=en-US}}</ref> One year after he was selected, the NFL allowed all juniors to participate.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Eskenazi |first=Gerald |date=February 16, 1990 |title=N.F.L. Set To Allow Juniors In Draft |language=en-US |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/02/16/sports/nfl-set-to-allow-juniors-in-draft.html |access-date=March 5, 2022 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref> During pre-draft measurements, Sanders was measured at 5&nbsp;ft 8 in tall, and weighed at 203&nbsp;lbs.<ref name=":1" />

The [[Detroit Lions]] [[Draft (sports)|drafted]] Sanders third overall in the [[1989 NFL draft]], after [[Troy Aikman]] and [[Tony Mandarich]], thanks to the endorsement of head coach [[Wayne Fontes]].{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=28}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/draft.htm |access-date=June 8, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions competed in the [[NFC North|Central Division]] of the [[National Football Conference]] (NFC).<ref name=":13" /> Since the completion of the [[NFL-AFL merger]] in 1970, the Lions had made the postseason only twice, and had not had a season at or above .500 since their most recent playoff season in 1983.<ref name=":13" /> Fontes, who took over the coaching position midway through the previous season, was impressed with Sanders' athletic ability after he lifted 225&nbsp;lbs (102&nbsp;kg) for 21 [[Repetition (bodybuilding)|reps]].{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=28}}<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sylvester |first=Curt |date=December 23, 1988 |title=Fontes will revamp staff |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/99869628/ |access-date=January 27, 2023 |work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|via=Newspapers.com |page=6D}}</ref> Lions' management considered drafting another "Sanders", cornerback [[Deion Sanders]], but Fontes convinced them to draft Barry instead.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=27}} Fontes offered Sanders jersey No. 20, which had been worn by former Lions running back [[Billy Sims]]; Sims was one of the league's premier running backs in the early 1980s, and Fontes requested he wear the number in tribute to Sims.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rank |first=Adam |date=February 12, 2014 |title=Throwback Thursday - Wish you could've stayed |url=http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap2000000325351/Throwback-Thursday---Wish-you-couldve-stayed |access-date=February 27, 2014 |website=NFL.com |publisher=[[National Football League]]}}</ref> Sanders had doubts about what his career would have been like if another team selected him, such as the [[Green Bay Packers]], who selected Mandarich at No. 2, later saying: "I don't know what I would've done if I was drafted by Green Bay, I don't know if I would've wanted to play in Green Bay, I don't think I could've handled this weather every day."<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hayes |first=Jim |date=December 23, 1990 |title=A Barry bad reminder |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/71653823/barry-sanders/ |access-date=February 23, 2022 |work=[[Green Bay Press-Gazette]]|via=Newspapers.com |pages=C-2}}</ref>

Sanders did not participate in the training camp of his rookie season due to a contract dispute.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-08-10 |title=Barry Sanders reflects on 'rookie' experience in Lions training camp |url=https://www.wxyz.com/sports/barry-sanders-reflects-on-rookie-experience-in-lions-training-camp |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=WXYZ 7 News Detroit |language=en}}</ref> He eventually came to monetary terms with the Lions, signing a deal for five years, $9.5 million, including a $2.1 million signing bonus—ten percent of which ($210,000), he donated to his local church: Paradise Baptist Church.<ref>{{Cite web |date=September 8, 1989 |title=Barry Sanders Signs $9.5-Million Contract |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1989-09-08-sp-1886-story.html |access-date=February 6, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":21" /> In his first Lions press conference, Sanders prefaced that he wanted to assist in restoring the franchise's reputation in the NFL landscape, stating that he wanted to help "restore the roar in the dome."<ref name=":23" />

==== Early years and postseason win (1989–1991) ====
As a rookie in 1989, Sanders started 13 out of a possible 16 games for the Lions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 Detroit Lions Roster & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1989_roster.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> In his first career professional game against the [[1989 Phoenix Cardinals season|Phoenix Cardinals]] on September 10, Sanders ran for 71 yards on nine attempts and scored a rushing touchdown in the 16–13 loss.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=30, 32}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=Phoenix Cardinals at Detroit Lions - September 10th, 1989 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198909100det.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1989 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders compiled 126 yards on 18 attempts and a touchdown in the 47–27 loss, but became injured with bruised ribs and a [[hip pointer]] that plagued him through the rest of the season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions - September 24th, 1989 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198909240det.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Raffo |first=Dave |date=September 25, 1989 |title=NFL Roundup |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1989/09/25/NFL-Roundup/7243622699200/ |access-date=February 25, 2022 |website=[[UPI]] |language=en}}</ref>{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=33}} On October 1, Sanders only had one yard on five attempts against the [[1989 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]] in the 23–3 loss.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pittsburgh Steelers at Detroit Lions - October 1st, 1989 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198910010det.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1989 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders had 23 attempts for 99 yards in the 24–17 loss.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings - October 8th, 1989 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198910080min.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> After the game, Vikings head coach [[Jerry Burns]] asked game officials to check if Sanders had applied [[silicone]] to himself; Burns believed this was why his players had difficulty [[Tackle (football move)|tackling]] him.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stroud |first=Rick |date=September 27, 1992 |title=Bucs need tricks to cope with the disappearing act |url=https://www.tampabay.com/archive/1992/09/27/bucs-need-tricks-to-cope-with-the-disappearing-act/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Tampa Bay Times |language=en}}</ref> No illegal substance was ever found.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=33}} On December 24, the final game of the season, he had 158 yards on 20 attempts to go along with three touchdowns against the [[1989 Atlanta Falcons season|Atlanta Falcons]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons - December 24th, 1989 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198912240atl.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> During the game, the Lions installed a special phone line in one of the press boxes to monitor [[Christian Okoye]], a running back for the [[Kansas City Chiefs]] who, at the time, was tied with Sanders for the league rushing title. When Okoye's game ended, Sanders trailed Okoye by only ten yards. Fontes offered Sanders the chance to return to the Lions' game to gain enough yards to pass Okoye, after Sanders was pulled from the game when the score was in the Lions' favor. Yet Sanders declined to return to the game, letting Okoye keep the rushing title.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Murphy |first=Austin |date=September 10, 1990 |title=A LAMB AMONG LIONS |url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1990/09/10/a-lamb-among-lions-a-gentle-soul-off-the-field-barry-sanders-runs-up-a-storm-for-detroit |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Sports Illustrated Vault |language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1989/rushing.htm |access-date=2024-06-06 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":12">{{Cite web |last=Birkett |first=Dave |date=July 15, 2018 |title=Barry Sanders at 50: Here are 20 tales about No. 20 you might not know |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2018/07/15/detroit-lions-barry-sanders-stories/777711002/ |access-date=February 20, 2022 |website=[[Detroit Free Press]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Sanders finished the season totaling 1,470 rushing yards off of 280 attempts and 14 touchdowns.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1989 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1989/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210107172709/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1989/ |archive-date=January 7, 2021 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> His rushing total was both a rookie franchise record, and a franchise record for any running back in Lions history (both records held previously by [[Billy Sims]]).<ref name="statmuse.com">{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards In A Season Lions Player |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-in-a-season-lions-player |access-date=February 5, 2022 |website=www.statmuse.com |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders was awarded the [[National Football League Rookie of the Year Award|NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award]], and named to the [[PFWA All-Rookie Team]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Winners |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/ap-offensive-rookie-of-the-year-award.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He was also selected to the [[Pro Bowl]] and was named a [[All-Pro|first-team All-Pro]] by the [[Associated Press]] (AP).<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-1989.htm |access-date=June 12, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions struggled that season, posting a {{Abbr|7–9|7 wins, 9 losses}} record and failing to make the [[NFL playoffs|postseason]], despite winning five straight games to end the year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1989 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1989.htm |access-date=June 10, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref>

On September 9, 1990, against the [[1990 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders had 79 yards from 14 rushing attempts and a goal-line touchdown in the 38–21 loss in the Lions' regular season opener.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions - September 9th, 1990 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199009090det.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1990 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] on September 30, Sanders had 20 attempts for 94 yards in the 24–21 loss in Week 4.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions - September 30th, 1990 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199009300det.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders had 16 attempts for 90 yards and a touchdown, coupled with five receptions for 135 yards receiving and a 47-yard receiving touchdown against the [[1990 Kansas City Chiefs season|Kansas City Chiefs]] in the 43–24 loss in Week 6.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Kansas City Chiefs - October 14th, 1990 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199010140kan.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> On November 4, playing against the [[1990 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]], Sanders had 11 rushes for 104 yards and a touchdown, in a game where the Lions surrendered a 21-point lead to lose 38–41.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Washington Redskins at Detroit Lions - November 4th, 1990 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199011040det.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Biggest Blown Leads |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/blown_leads.htm |access-date=January 27, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On December 10 against the [[1990 Los Angeles Raiders season|Los Angeles Raiders]], Sanders was credited with a season-high 176 yards from 25 attempts and two touchdowns in the 38–31 loss.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Los Angeles Raiders at Detroit Lions - December 10th, 1990 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199012100det.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He earned his first NFC Offensive Player of the Week honor for his game against the Raiders.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1990 NFL Week 14 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1990/week_14.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> On December 22 against the Packers, Sanders had 19 attempts for 133 yards and a touchdown in the 24–17 victory.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers - December 22nd, 1990 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199012220gnb.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders had a productive year, finishing the year first in the NFL in rushing yards, with 1,304, becoming the first Lions running back to lead the league in rushing yards since [[Byron White]] in [[1940 NFL season|1940]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Rushing Yards Year-by-Year Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_year_by_year.htm |access-date=2024-06-06 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1940 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1940/rushing.htm |access-date=February 5, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1990 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1990/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210321112157/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1990/ |archive-date=March 21, 2021 |access-date=February 5, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He ranked third in rushing touchdowns (13), and sixth in both attempts (255), and yards per attempt (5.1).<ref>{{Cite web |title=1990 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1990/rushing.htm |access-date=February 5, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> As a result, Sanders was selected to his second Pro Bowl and was again named an AP first-team All-Pro.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1990 NFL Pro Bowlers |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1990/probowl.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1990 NFL All-Pros |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1990/allpro.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions finished the year with a {{Abbr|6–10|6 wins, 10 losses}} record and missed the postseason for the seventh consecutive season.<ref name=":13" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=1990 Detroit Lions Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1990.htm |access-date=2024-06-11 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

On September 1, 1991, Sanders was inactive for the Lions' 45–0 shutout loss against the [[1991 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]], due to having sore ribs before the opening kickoff. The loss was the franchise's worst in over 20 years.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=45}} On November 24, 1991, against the [[1991 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders dominated, with 220 rushing yards on 23 attempts and four touchdowns, a game the Lions won 34–14.<ref name=":3" /> Sanders dedicated the win to teammate [[Mike Utley]], who suffered a career-ending [[spinal cord injury]] the previous game.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Freeman |first=Mike |date=November 28, 1991 |title=For Lions, 'Thumbs Up' The Thanksgiving Story |language=en-US |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/sports/1991/11/28/for-lions-thumbs-up-the-thanksgiving-story/8270e731-6bf3-42ea-96cd-ff04628892ee/ |access-date=February 20, 2022 |issn=0190-8286}}</ref>{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=48-49}} In the final game of the regular season against the [[1991 Buffalo Bills season|Buffalo Bills]], Sanders had 26 attempts for 108 yards and a touchdown, but [[fumble]]d in Lions territory, allowing the Bills to tie the game; the Lions would still be victorious, ending 17–14 in overtime.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 23, 1991 |title=Lions Are Restless, Defeat Bills : Interconference: Buffalo keeps Thomas, Kelly and Lofton on sideline during 17-14 overtime loss. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-23-sp-664-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220220235916/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-12-23-sp-664-story.html |archive-date=February 20, 2022 |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]]|agency=[[Associated Press]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Sanders finished the regular season with 1,548 rushing yards from a workload of 342 attempts. He led the league in rushing touchdowns, with a career-high 16.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1991 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1991/rushing.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]]}}</ref> Subsequently, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and AP first-team All-Pro team and awarded the [[Bert Bell Award]].<ref name=":1" /> The 1991 season was the most successful season in terms of wins with Sanders starting at running back. With a {{Abbr|12–4|12 wins, 4 losses}} record, the Lions clinched the [[NFC Central]] and made the postseason for the first time since [[1983 Detroit Lions season|1983]], with Fontes being awarded that year's [[NFL Coach of the Year|National Football League Coach of the Year Award]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 26, 1991 |title=AP Names Fontes Best Coach |url=https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/1991/12/26/ap-names-fontes-best-coach/62507048007/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=The Oklahoman |language=en-US}}</ref> Until 2024, the 12 wins were the most in a season by the Lions franchise in its history.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Team Encyclopedia |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/index.htm |access-date=June 6, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Having the {{Abbr|No. 2|There are six postseason spots for each conference (AFC and NFC), the first two spots for each conference skip the first round (Wild Card), and into the Divisional Round}} [[Seed (sports)|seed]] in the [[National Football Conference|NFC]], the Lions skipped the [[NFL Wild Card|Wild Card Round]] and advanced to the [[NFL divisional playoffs|Divisional Round]], where they faced the [[1991 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]]. Sanders helped lead the Lions to their first postseason victory since the team won the [[1957 NFL Championship Game]]. In the game, Sanders was held to only 22 yards rushing before he broke away for a 47-yard touchdown run, in which he broke several tackles to close out the 38–6 victory.<ref name=":23" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=54-55}}<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFC Championship - Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins - January 12th, 1992 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199201120was.htm |access-date=February 19, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the [[NFC Championship Game]], Sanders was held to eleven attempts for 44 yards in the Lions' blowout 41–10 loss to the eventual Super Bowl-winning Redskins.<ref name=":3" /> Sanders finished the postseason with 23 attempts for 113 yards and a touchdown. He would never win another playoff game in his career after that season.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1991 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1991/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170610044454/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1991/ |archive-date=June 10, 2017 |access-date=February 19, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":23" />

==== Mid-career (1992–1994) ====
On September 13, 1992, Sanders had 26 attempts for 66 yards against the [[1992 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1992 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1992/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210929215536/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1992/ |archive-date=September 29, 2021 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1992 Washington Redskins season|Washington Redskins]] the following week, Sanders recorded 14 attempts for only 34 yards in the 13–10 loss.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins - September 20th, 1992 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199209200was.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> On November 22, Sanders compiled 29 attempts for 151 yards and a touchdown against the [[1992 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]].<ref name=":8" /> His rushing total against the Bengals brought his career total to 5,202 rushing yards, passing Sims for a new franchise record.<ref name="pro-football-reference.com">{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Career Rushing Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/career-rushing.htm |access-date=February 20, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders finished his final regular season game with 19 attempts for 104 yards against the [[1992 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]].<ref name=":8" /> Overall, Sanders was credited with 1,352 rushing yards from a workload of 312 attempts and nine touchdowns; his rushing yards total ranked fourth in the league, and his attempts ranked third.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1992/rushing.htm |access-date=February 19, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP second-team All-Pro for the first time.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions regressed from their previous season, posting a {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}} record for the year, and missed the playoffs after making the conference championship the prior year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 Detroit Lions Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1992.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1992 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1992/index.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>

During the 1993 season, Sanders appeared to be well on his way to that year's NFL rushing title; however, on November 25, 1993, against the [[1993 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], after rushing for 63 yards on 16 attempts, Sanders was forced to leave the game with an injury.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1993 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1993/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210321112201/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1993/ |archive-date=March 21, 2021 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":22" /> The Lions revealed after the game that Sanders had suffered a [[Medial collateral ligament|torn medial collateral ligament (MCL)]], and would miss three to five weeks. It was subsequently revealed by a physician that Sanders had also torn his [[posterior cruciate ligament]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gay |first=Nancy |date=December 9, 1993 |title=Sanders' Knee Injury Worse Than Thought |url=https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/1993/12/09/sanders-knee-injury-worse-than-thought/62440418007/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=The Oklahoman |language=en-US}}</ref> As a result, Sanders was inactive for the last five games of the regular season.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |date=November 25, 1993 |title=Sanders out with knee injury |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1993/11/25/Sanders-out-with-knee-injury/3883754203600/ |access-date=February 20, 2022 |website=[[UPI]] |language=en}}</ref><ref name=":18" /> In his final contract year, Sanders and the Lions agreed to a four-year, $17.2-million contract, making him the highest-paid running back in the NFL, and the third-highest-paid player overall, behind [[John Elway]] and [[Steve Young]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=December 23, 1993 |title=SPORTS PEOPLE: FOOTBALL; Lions' Sanders Receives Richest Pact for Runner |language=en-US |work=[[The New York Times]] |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/12/23/sports/sports-people-football-lions-sanders-receives-richest-pact-for-runner.html |url-status=live |access-date=February 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118200535/https://www.nytimes.com/1993/12/23/sports/sports-people-football-lions-sanders-receives-richest-pact-for-runner.html |archive-date=January 18, 2018 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=December 23, 1993 |title=Sanders Signs for $17.2 Million |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-12-23-sp-4755-story.html |access-date=February 20, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref> Starting in only 11 games due to the injury, he finished in the top ten in multiple rushing categories.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1993 NFL Leaders and Leaderboards |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1993/leaders.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders was fifth in the league in rushing yards (1,115 rushing yards), ninth in attempts (243), and second in rushing yards per game (101.4 rushing yards per game); with a career-low three rushing touchdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1993 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1993/rushing.htm |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He was named to the Pro Bowl and an AP second-team All-Pro.<ref name="pro-football-reference.com" /><ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the regular season with a {{Abbr|10–6|10 wins, 6 losses}} record, clinching the NFC Central and a postseason berth.<ref name=":13" /> The Lions faced their division rival [[1993 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] in the [[1993–94 NFL playoffs#NFC: Green Bay Packers 28, Detroit Lions 24|Wild Card Round]]. Sanders, after being cleared for the game, recorded 27 attempts for 169 yards, the best statistical postseason game of his career; but the Lions lost 28–24.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions - January 8th, 1994 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199401080det.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Meerdink |first=Jon |date=2016-12-30 |title=How did the Packers and Lions play five times in 1994? |url=https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/2016/12/30/14129054/green-bay-packers-detroit-lions-playoffs-nfl-brett-favre-aaron-rodgers-mvp-1994-five-games |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Acme Packing Company |language=en}}</ref>

{{Quote box
| quote = “We’re learning little by little, the hard way, that when Barry Sanders is not having the day you expect him to have, it’s hard for this team to win.”
| source = –[[Wayne Fontes]] following the 1994 NFC Wild Card Round<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 1, 1995 |title=Packers Tame Sanders, Leave Lions Beaten : NFC playoffs: NFL's top running back is held to minus one yard as Detroit is stunned, 16-12, at Green Bay. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112011238/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=February 24, 2022 |website=[[The Los Angeles Times]]|agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref>
| align = left
| width = 33%
}}

On September 11, 1994, Sanders struggled, as he had 12 attempts for only 16 yards in a 10–3 loss against the [[1994 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1994 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1994/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170607081904/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1994/ |archive-date=June 7, 2017 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1994 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]] the following week, Sanders improved with a career-high 40 attempts for 194 yards.<ref name=":10" /> For his performance, he was named the NFC Offensive Player of The Week.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Players of the Week |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-week.htm |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On September 25, 1994, against the [[1994 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots]], Sanders recorded 18 attempts for 131 yards and two touchdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |title=New England Patriots at Detroit Lions - September 25th, 1994 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199409250det.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> During the game, Sanders had one of the most memorable runs of his career. While rushing 39 yards for a touchdown, Sanders juked and spun his way to the end zone, causing Patriots safety [[Harlon Barnett]] to spin around trying to tackle Sanders. Barnett later spoke of the moment: "I'm not embarrassed about what happened. I thought I did pretty good. I got in front of him twice", Barnett then added, "I just didn't stay there."<ref>{{Cite magazine |date=December 5, 1994 |title=Cut and Run |url=https://vault.si.com/vault/1994/12/05/cut-and-run-the-wizardry-of-detroits-barry-sanders-has-nfl-defenses-wondering-how-in-the-world-to-stop-him |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030102349/https://vault.si.com/vault/1994/12/05/cut-and-run-the-wizardry-of-detroits-barry-sanders-has-nfl-defenses-wondering-how-in-the-world-to-stop-him |url-status=dead |archive-date=October 30, 2020 |access-date=February 21, 2022 |magazine=[[Sports Illustrated]] |language=en-us}}</ref> Against the [[1994 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], in a 14–9 win, Sanders had arguably the best statistical game of his career, compiling a career-high 237 rushing yards (franchise record), off of 26 attempts; setting the record for most rushing yards in a single game without scoring a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |date=1994-11-14 |title=Sanders (237 Yards) Steals Show : NFC: He comes through with best game as a pro to lead the Lions over Buccaneers, 14-9. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1994-11-14-sp-62567-story.html |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions - November 13th, 1994 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199411130det.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards Without A Touchdown In A Game |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-without-a-touchdown-in-a-game |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=www.statmuse.com |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Rushing Yards In A Game Lions Player |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-rushing-yards-in-a-game-lions-player |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=www.statmuse.com |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders entered the final game of the season within striking distance of 2,000 yards rushing, but finished the loss to the [[Miami Dolphins]] with only 12 carries for 52 yards.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00.htm|title=Barry Sanders 1994 Game Log|website=[[Pro Football Reference]]}}</ref> Nonetheless, Sanders finished first in the league in rushing yards, recording 331 attempts for 1,883 yards rushing and scoring seven touchdowns. His single-season rushing total was fourth in NFL history up to that point.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Rushing Yards Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_single_season.htm |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> He totaled 2,166 [[yards from scrimmage]], which, at the time, was the seventh-most ever in a season.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1994 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1994/rushing.htm |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Most Scrimmage Yards In A Season 1910 To 1994 |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask/most-scrimmage-yards-in-a-season-1910-to-1994 |access-date=February 21, 2022 |website=www.statmuse.com |publisher=[[StatMuse]] |language=en}}</ref> As a result of his season, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP first-team All-Pro after the regular season. Sanders was named the [[Associated Press NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award|NFL Offensive Player of the Year]] (OPOTY) for the [[1994 NFL season|1994 season]] and finished second in [[Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award|NFL Most Valuable Player]] voting behind Steve Young.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions finished the year with a {{Abbr|9–7|9 wins, 7 losses}} record and made the postseason with a [[Wild card (sports)|wild card]] spot.<ref name=":13" /> The Lions faced the Green Bay Packers again in the [[1994–95 NFL playoffs#NFC: Green Bay Packers 16, Detroit Lions 12|Wild Card Round]], after being defeated by them the previous season. On December 31, Sanders struggled against the Packers and recorded what is viewed as the worst game of his career, having 13 attempts for -1 rushing yards. Six of his 13 attempts went for negative yardage, and the Lions as a team were held to only -4 rushing yards in the game, losing 16–12.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 1, 1995 |title=Packers Tame Sanders, Leave Lions Beaten : NFC playoffs: NFL's top running back is held to minus one yard as Detroit is stunned, 16-12, at Green Bay. |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112011238/https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-01-01-sp-15317-story.html |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=February 23, 2022 |website=[[Los Angeles Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref name=":10" /><ref>{{Cite news|last=O'Hara|first=Mike|date=January 1, 1995|title=Time for changes?|pages=35|work=[[Detroit Free Press]]|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/?clipping_id=74510098&fcfToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJmcmVlLXZpZXctaWQiOjk5MjA1NTMxLCJpYXQiOjE2NDU3MjE1NDYsImV4cCI6MTY0NTgwNzk0Nn0.oTR620T1LHBZrlyIs2uUVW0zEy1eYZu9Svm7F-UxFrA|access-date=February 24, 2022}}</ref>

==== Playoff disappointments and MVP season (1995–1998) ====
The 1995 season began against the [[1995 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]]; Sanders recorded 21 rushing attempts for 108 yards.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1995 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1995/ |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On September 25 against the [[1995 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]], Sanders had a down game, recording 17 attempts for only 24 yards.<ref name=":11" /> Against the [[1995 Cleveland Browns season|Cleveland Browns]], Sanders improved with 157 yards from 18 attempts and three touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown run, in a 38–20 victory.<ref name=":11" /> Sanders finished with 314 attempts for 1,500 yards and 11 touchdowns. For his season, Sanders was selected to the Pro Bowl and named an AP first-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions posted a {{Abbr|10–6|10 wins, 6 losses}} record and made the postseason with a wild card spot, where they faced the [[1995 Philadelphia Eagles season|Philadelphia Eagles]] in the [[1995–96 NFL playoffs#NFC: Philadelphia Eagles 58, Detroit Lions 37|Wild Card Round]].<ref name=":13" /> Sanders had ten attempts for 40 yards as the Lions' rushing game was stuffed by the Eagles' defense. The Lions were likewise overwhelmed by the Eagles' offense and faced a 44-point deficit in the third quarter 51–7, eventually losing the game 58–37; despite teammate [[Lomas Brown]] stating before the game that a Lions victory was "guaranteed".<ref>{{Cite news |last=Brookover |first=Bob |date=December 31, 1995 |title=Defense becomes Lions tamers |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/183265653/?terms=%22barry%22%20%22sanders%22&match=1 |access-date=June 16, 2022 |work=[[Courier Post]]|via=Newspapers.com |page=8F}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Zaroo |first=Philip |date=2009-06-05 |title=Philadelphia reporter tells story of infamous Lomas Brown 'guarantee' of 1995 |url=https://www.mlive.com/highlightreel/2009/06/philadelphia_reporter_tells_st.html |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=mlive.com |language=en}}</ref> At the time, this was the highest-scoring postseason game in NFL history, with 95 points scored.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sheridan |first=Phil |date=December 31, 1995 |title=Detroit's Brown readily eats words |pages=C1, C7 |work=[[The Philadelphia Inquirer]] |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/178329518 |access-date=June 19, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Al-Khateeb |first=Zac  |date=2023-01-21 |title=Highest-scoring NFL playoff games: Breaking down the record for most points scored and in what matchup |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/highest-scoring-nfl-playoff-games-record-most-points-scored-matchup/d9wrhqhqlhuozd2julkkrzt3 |access-date=2024-06-06 |website=Sporting News |language=en-us}}</ref> This record was bested by one point in a 51–45 victory by the [[2009 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]] over the [[2009 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]] in [[2009–10 NFL playoffs|2009]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Farmer |first=Sam |date=January 11, 2010 |title=Warner's 5 TDs, Dansby's fumble return cap big day |page=3 |work=[[The Chicago Tribune]] |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/232856114/?terms=%2296%22%20%22kurt%20warner%22&match=1 |access-date=June 19, 2022}}</ref>

In 1996, during the first game of the season against the [[1996 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], Sanders recorded 24 rushing attempts for 163 rushing yards.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1996 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1996/ |access-date=February 26, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Against the [[1996 Oakland Raiders season|Oakland Raiders]], Sanders had nine attempts for only 36 yards.<ref name=":2" /> On November 3 against the [[1996 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]], Sanders had 20 attempts for 152 yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":2" /> Against the [[1996 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]] on November 17, Sanders had 16 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":2" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=73}} Against the [[1996 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] the following week, Sanders had 21 attempts for 107 yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":2" /> Sanders had 20 attempts for 134 yards and a touchdown against the Vikings, but a missed two-point conversion attempt after his touchdown resulted in the Lions losing 22–24.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions - December 8th, 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199612080det.htm |access-date=February 26, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> In the final game of the season, he recorded 28 attempts for 175 yards against the [[1996 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]].<ref name=":2" /> Overall, Sanders finished the regular season first in the league in rushing yards with 1,553 rushing yards from 307 attempts. He scored 11 rushing touchdowns, and had 97.1 rushing yards per game, which was first in the league.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1996 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1996/rushing.htm |access-date=February 26, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> At this point in his career, Sanders had 11,725 career rushing yards, seventh all-time, and ranked eighth all-time in career rushing touchdowns, with 84.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Touchdowns Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_td_career_1996.htm |access-date=February 26, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Yards Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_career_1996.htm |access-date=February 26, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Career Rushing Attempts Leaders Through 1996 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_att_career_1996.htm |access-date=February 26, 2022 |website=Pro-Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> The Lions regressed, posting a {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}} record, and failed to make the postseason after three straight playoff seasons from 1993 to 1995; though Sanders still made the Pro Bowl and was named an AP second-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":13" />

Before the start of the 1997 season, Fontes was fired after nine seasons coaching the Lions, and replaced by [[Bobby Ross]]; Sanders was saddened by Fontes' firing, believing he deserved another chance at coaching the team.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=76}} On September 7 against the [[1997 Tampa Bay Buccaneers season|Tampa Bay Buccaneers]], Sanders struggled on the ground, having 10 attempts for only 20 yards, but recorded 102 receiving yards and a touchdown.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1997 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1997/ |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> On October 12, Sanders dominated with 215 yards from 24 attempts and two touchdowns against the Buccaneers, passing [[Jim Brown]] to be the fourth-ranked career rushing leader in NFL history, with 12,513 career rushing yards; he also caught a seven-yard touchdown pass.<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=80}} Against the [[1997 Indianapolis Colts season|Indianapolis Colts]], Sanders had another stellar performance, compiling 24 attempts for 216 yards and two touchdowns (including one of 80 yards).<ref name=":5" /> With the win, Sanders became the first running back with ten consecutive games with 100 yards rushing in a season, and became the first running back to have three touchdowns of 80+ yards in a season.{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=81}} Against the [[1997 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]], Sanders had 19 attempts for 167 yards and three touchdowns, passing [[Eric Dickerson]] to become the second-ranked rusher for career yards behind [[Walter Payton]]<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=81-82}} On December 21, 1997, Sanders entered the season finale against the [[1997 New York Jets season|New York Jets]] needing at least 131 rushing yards to reach 2,000 for the season; both teams needed a win to clinch a playoff berth.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Cote |first=Greg |date=December 19, 1997 |title=2,000 reasons why Barry is MVP |url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/643719793/?terms=%22barry%20sanders%22%20%22whupping%22&match=1 |access-date=June 10, 2022 |work=[[The Miami Herald]]|via=Newspapers.com |pages=8D}}</ref><ref name=":5" /> Sanders reached the 2,000 mark on a two-yard run; finishing the game with 23 attempts for 184 yards and a touchdown; helping the Lions edge the Jets 13–10.<ref name=":5" />{{Sfn|Crompton|2008|p=83}} Sanders had a season that is considered among the greatest ever by a running back.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Swartz |first=Bryn |date=March 20, 2009 |title=The 10 Greatest Running Back Seasons in NFL History |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/142064-the-10-greatest-running-back-seasons-in-nfl-history |access-date=March 4, 2022 |website=[[Bleacher Report]] |language=en}}</ref> He recorded 2,053 rushing yards, which was first in the league that season, from 335 attempts and 11 touchdowns, becoming just the third running back in history to reach [[2,000-yard club|2,000 rushing yards]] in a season. For his accomplishments, he credited his [[offensive linemen]], stating: "Without them, I wouldn't have run far at all."{{Sfn|McCormick|2003|p=106}} Sanders rushed for 100+ yards in the season's final 14 games, an NFL record.<ref name=":5" /> With 2,358 total scrimmage yards, he broke the single-season record for scrimmage yards that was held by [[Marcus Allen]]; the record was broken two seasons later by [[Marshall Faulk]], and again by [[Chris Johnson (running back)|Chris Johnson]] in 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |title=NFL Yards From Scrimmage Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/yds_from_scrimmage_single_season.htm |access-date=March 5, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders was named to the Pro Bowl and AP first-team All-Pro, and awarded the Bert Bell Award. Sanders was also awarded his second NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award, and the [[Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player Award|NFL Most Valuable Player]] (MVP) (co-won with [[Brett Favre]]).<ref name=":1" /> The Lions posted a {{Abbr|9–7|9 wins, 7 losses}} record and clinched a wild card spot as the No. 5 seed in the NFC.<ref name=":13" /> Sanders and the Lions faced the Buccaneers, who were playing their first home postseason game since 1979.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Tampa Bay Buccaneers Playoff History |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/tam/playoffs.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders had 18 attempts for 65 yards as the Lions lost 10–20 in the [[1997–98 NFL playoffs#NFC: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20, Detroit Lions 10|Wild Card Round]], after quarterback [[Scott Mitchell (quarterback)|Scott Mitchell]] left the game with an injury in the third quarter.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Wild Card - Detroit Lions at Tampa Bay Buccaneers - December 28th, 1997 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199712280tam.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=1997-12-29 |title=Buccaneers 20, Lions 10 |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/1997/12/29/buccaneers-20-lions-10/ |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=Chicago Tribune |language=en-US}}</ref>

On September 13, 1998, against the [[1998 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]], Sanders recorded 185 rushing yards from 26 rushing attempts with three touchdowns in the 34–28 loss in Week 2.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=Barry Sanders 1998 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SandBa00/gamelog/1998/ |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |publisher=[[Sports Reference, LLC]] |language=en}}</ref> Sanders had 22 attempts for 69 yards in a 6–29 loss against the [[1998 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]].<ref name=":7" /> On November 26, 1998, against the [[1998 Pittsburgh Steelers season|Pittsburgh Steelers]], Sanders had a down game, with 20 attempts for only 33 rushing yards; the Lions were still victorious 19–16 in overtime.<ref name=":7" /> Against the [[1998 Jacksonville Jaguars season|Jacksonville Jaguars]], Sanders had 18 attempts for 102 yards.<ref name=":7" /> In Sanders' final game of his career, on December 27, 1998, he had 19 attempts for 41 yards in a 10–19 loss against the [[1998 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]].<ref name=":7" /> Sanders capped off his final season with 1,491 rushing yards (fourth in the league), from a career-high 343 attempts (fifth in the league), and four touchdowns.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 NFL Rushing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1998/rushing.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref> He was nine yards short of completing five straight seasons with at least 1,500 rushing yards. He was selected to his tenth Pro Bowl, and named an AP second-team All-Pro.<ref name=":1" /> The Lions struggled despite Sanders' performances, going {{Abbr|5–11|5 wins, 11 losses}}, and failing to make the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 Detroit Lions Rosters, Stats, Schedule, Team Draftees |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/1998.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=1998 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1998/index.htm |access-date=2024-06-10 |website=[[Pro Football Reference]] |language=en}}</ref>