As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for their upcoming NFC Wild Card Weekend playoff game against San Francisco at Lincoln Financial Field, players and staff are adjusting to the heightened atmosphere that comes with postseason football. The team, established in 1933 and based in Philadelphia, is no stranger to this time of year, having a long history of participation in the National Football League and drawing support from both local and national fans through games, media coverage, and fan engagement efforts (https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/).
Running back Saquon Barkley reflected on what sets playoff football apart. “I think the vibes are great. They’ve been great all year, but when you get to the playoffs, it goes to another level,” he said. “It’s probably my favorite part of playing football, outside of the Super Bowl. Win or go home. The speed increases. The plays matter more. The vibes are high and we’re excited for it and we know we’ve got a great opponent coming in and the mindset is just winning.
“The way you win in Game 1 is the same way you win in the playoffs, is the same way you win in the Championship Game, win in the Super Bowl. The vibes can be great, the chemistry between the two teams when the whistle blows – who is going to be more detailed, who is going to make more plays, who is going to score more touchdowns? That’s just how football is always going to be, no matter if it’s the playoffs or not. We did a really good job of that last year and we’ve just got to continue what we know.”
Placekicker Jake Elliott discussed preparing for challenging weather conditions expected during Sunday’s game: “I’ve gotten a lot better through the years,” he said. “There is always something to consider, usually the wind. If there is something going on, I try to get over there and kick at what our game time would be and see what the conditions are going to be like.” He noted that west-northwest winds could make things tricky but added: “It will be a tricky day, but I’ve seen it a bunch and you just have to play through it.”
Elliott also commented on recent field improvements: “He’s [Tony Leonard] the best and the field is really great,” Elliott said about working with Tony Leonard, Vice President of Grounds for the Eagles. “That’s not a concern at all because Tony and his staff always do such a great job.” He emphasized adapting as necessary: “It’s January and we’re outside in the Northeast… I have become accustomed to this.”
Safety Marcus Epps returned this season after spending time with Las Vegas following his role with Philadelphia during their run to Super Bowl LVII in 2022. He spoke about appreciating each postseason opportunity: “Not at all,” he said regarding taking things for granted. “It’s hard to get to this point… This is just a winning culture, a great organization, and I’m glad to be part of it.
“It means a lot to be in this position… We have high standards and high expectations here and we put in the work to reach those goals.” Epps described an upbeat mood within preparations while acknowledging what’s at stake: “Everyone is focused… Playoffs are typically more intense… so you have to be ready when game begins.”
Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson shared thoughts on his first season with Philadelphia leading up into playoffs: “I’m excited. Everybody is excited… We have a great vibe…” Jackson attributed personal growth this season partly due faith while focusing on self-improvement throughout challenges faced.
Looking ahead toward facing San Francisco’s offense led by Christian McCaffrey—a player Jackson has matched up against since college—he stated: “Great player does it all… They have weapons… It’s going up against them.”
The Eagles continue their tradition as one of professional football’s longstanding franchises by hosting key playoff games at Lincoln Financial Field (https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/). Their broad cultural influence extends beyond Philadelphia via national broadcasts as well as merchandise offerings (https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/).
