Jared Verse just lit the match, and Saquon Barkley isn’t thrilled about the fireworks. Ahead of the highly anticipated Divisional Round showdown, Verse decided to stir the pot by taking a jab at Philadelphia Eagles fans, a fanbase known for being a little passionate.
Barkley, ever the seasoned pro, didn’t hold back when asked about the rookie’s bold move.
Jared Verse’s Bold Take on Eagles Fans Sparks Saquon Barkley’s Savvy Warning
The Los Angeles Rams rookie edge rusher, Verse, unleashed his feelings ahead of Sunday’s Divisional Round game in Philly.
“I hate Eagles fans. They’re so annoying. When I see that green and white, I hate it. I actually get upset. I actually genuinely get hot.” Bold words, especially when heading into Lincoln Financial Field – a venue known for its rowdy crowd.
Barkley, seasoned and savvy, was quick to weigh in. “Probably not the smartest thing to say when you’re coming to Philadelphia,” he said.
“Probably not the smartest thing to say when you’re coming to Philadelphia.”
Saquon Barkley on Jared Verse saying he hates Eagles fans. pic.twitter.com/9O72Dc6xHX
— Tim McManus (@Tim_McManus) January 17, 2025
Barkley knows firsthand how Philly fans operate, having faced them multiple times in high-stakes matchups. His advice — don’t give them extra ammunition.
“I’ve been on the other side … probably wouldn’t give them any extra fuel. Pretty sure the Philly fans have seen that comment, it was already gonna be loud and rocking, so just only gonna add to it,” Barkley added, hinting that Verse’s comments would only crank up the hostility meter.
The Rams now face an uphill battle. Not only are they prepping for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ versatile offense, but they’ll also contend with a crowd hungry for blood after Verse’s fiery remarks.
While the weather forecast looms, it is clear the Rams may have more to focus on than the cold.
Rams Weather Philly’s Chill, but Barkley’s the Real Concern
Snow, rain, or sleet? The Rams have already faced it all — soggy Santa Clara, Calif., and wind-chilled East Rutherford, N.J., didn’t slow them down. However, Sunday’s NFC Divisional Round match in Philly seems like a different beast. Temperatures dipping into the 30s with snow in the mix might sound brutal, but Rams coach Sean McVay isn’t losing sleep over it.
“If it does snow or if it does rain, we have to be mindful of what we need to do to adjust and adapt,” McVay said this week. “But there’s no way it can be as cold as it was at the [New York Jets] game.”
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The real concern, though, is Barkley, who ran circles around the Rams in November, piling up 255 rushing yards and two long touchdowns in a 37-20 Eagles win. Defensive coordinator Chris Shula admitted it was “humbling.” Sure, focusing on Barkley is key, but Philly’s got one of the NFL’s most loaded offenses.
Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore knows how to use that powerful offensive line to his advantage, so Philly’s weather might get crazy. However, the Rams are more worried about getting burned by Barkley and Philly’s dynamic playmakers. It’s a classic case of “weather the storm,” but this time, it’s all about execution.
