(4) - To earn respect from Eagles fans, you have to call them out
East Coast NFL fans are a bit rough around the edges. They are the first to critique their team for underwhelming performances. As we had cited above, the harshest critics of Eagles players and coaches who did not live up to expectations are the Eagles fans themselves. And as is always the case, that harsh treatment is magnified by any signs of fear. Whenever facing the Philadelphia Eagles, it's be brave, or go home.
Are Eagles fans bullies? I don't know that I would categorize them as such. But I do acknowledge that some fans go overboard in their zeal to support the team. That can lead to lines being crossed. Eagles fans have been known to rebuke spouses and children who support opposing teams. And sometimes, the reports are terribly disappointing.
But much like facing the playground bully, opposing players cannot back down from the challenge. Even worse than commenting about Eagles fans is admitting that their trolling and ridiculing can result in mental mistakes. Some of the most hated foes in Eagles history are those players who used the ire of Eagles fans to fuel their performance.
But perhaps even more importantly, Jared Verse has set the stage. He will not be intimidated by playing on the road in front of a hostile crowd. And he won't let his teammates be intimidated either.
Respect is not given in the NFL. Rather, it is earned over time. And it is earned by saying what you mean and then going out and delivering on the football field. Eagles fans know and understand this all too well, even if reluctantly when it involves opposing players. Verse has called out Eagles fans. Now, all he has to do is show up and produce. He won't be loved by Eagles fans, but they will respect him.