The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing to face the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, marking their first meeting since Super Bowl LIX. In that championship game, the Eagles secured a dominant 40-22 win after building a substantial halftime lead and maintaining control throughout the match at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
Wide receiver A.J. Brown noted the changes both teams have undergone since February’s Super Bowl, while acknowledging the familiarity that comes from playing each other multiple times since 2021. “We know they’ve changed and there are things that we’ve changed, too,” Brown said. “I think there is a familiarity because we’ve played them a lot (four times since 2021, including two Super Bowls), but every game is unique. Every game presents its own differences, so that is always something to think about.”
During the Super Bowl, the Eagles’ defense recorded six sacks and three takeaways without resorting to blitzes, instead relying on strong performances from their defensive front. Cooper DeJean contributed with an interception returned for a touchdown. The defense limited Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ mobility and effectively controlled the line of scrimmage.
Since then, Philadelphia has introduced new starters across all levels of its defense, including Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith Jr. on the edges, Moro Ojomo at tackle, Jihaad Campbell at linebacker, Adoree’ Jackson at cornerback, and Andrew Mukuba at safety.
Linebacker Zack Baun reflected on lessons learned from the Super Bowl: “I think there are a lot of things we can take from that game,” Baun said. “We know Patrick Mahomes is an elite quarterback and his ability to extend plays with his legs is something that makes him so special, among other things. He can do it all.
“We know how we played in the Super Bowl, and we know we can come back with that approach and try to win that way or we can try to do things differently. I think we know their personnel and kind of the things they like to do, so that’s all part of it. It’s going to be a fun matchup.”
On offense, Kansas City’s defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo remains known for deploying various pressure packages. In last season’s Super Bowl matchup, Kansas City focused on stopping running back Saquon Barkley by loading the box defensively—allowing quarterback Jalen Hurts opportunities for long completions downfield.
Brown commented on whether those passing opportunities might arise again: “If they’re there, we have to make plays. That’s what it comes down to,” he said.
Despite roster changes—primarily on defense—the Eagles face a similar Chiefs squad as last year’s champions but enter with confidence gained from recent success under head coach Nick Sirianni. The team has won five of its last six road games and holds a 24-10 record away from home during Sirianni’s tenure. Meanwhile, Kansas City finished last season undefeated at home.
Defensive tackle Jordan Davis described the anticipation ahead of Sunday’s contest: “You always want to play the best of the best and they are the best and Patrick Mahomes is a great quarterback and they have a top offensive line, so this is why we’re here,” Davis said. “We know them, they know us, and the team that plays the best on Sunday is going to win the game. But, for sure, we’re going in with a lot of confidence, a lot of excitement, and we have to prepare for everything.”
The rematch will kick off Sunday at 4:25 PM as both teams look to establish early momentum in the regular season.
