The pressure on Eagles’ head coach Nick Sirianni has been mounting in recent weeks as the team struggled to address a long list of issues. While the offense had a slow start against the Browns, the defense played well and the offense eventually came together to score points.
In a close game like Sunday’s, emotions ran high and fans made it clear early on that they were watching closely. Sirianni was questioned about being booed after the game and expressed his dislike for it, preferring the cheers they receive instead.
SIRIANNI: “Yeah, we thrive off the crowd when they cheer for us. That’s all I’ll say. When our crowd cheers for us, we thrive off of them. You know, we hear them when they boo. We don’t necessarily like it. I don’t think that’s productive for anybody.
When they cheer for us and we’ve got them rolling, we love it.”
As the team headed to the locker room at halftime, “Fire Sirianni” chants could be heard, and after the final whistle, Sirianni had his own words for Eagles’ fans in attendance. When asked about his interaction with the fans post-game, he expressed excitement about the win and acknowledged the challenges of winning in the league.
SIRIANNI: “Just excited to get the win, yeah. It’s hard to win in this league, so we’re excited to get the win. Our fans created a couple of false starts that really helped us win this football game.
But I’m just excited to get the win and I appreciate the Linc’s support.”
Sirianni appeared notably more animated this week than before the bye week, explaining that he was having fun during Sunday’s game.
SIRIANNI: “I was having fun and I got some feedback from the guys that we need that energy and focus. When I’m having fun, that energy spreads to the rest of the team. If I want the guys to celebrate and be themselves after big plays, I should do the same, right?
That breeds the same attitude in the team.”
Although Jalen Hurts didn’t witness Sirianni’s exchange with fans after the game, he did encourage the head coach to be himself. Hurts elaborated on why he supported Sirianni’s return to his authentic self.
HURTS: “It’s about trusting in the vision and working together. It’s a group effort, where everyone has to excel in their role and give their best. I’m excited for him and his growth, it will help our team.”
Sirianni clarified that his interactions with Browns players during the game were in good spirit, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to engage in such animated exchanges.
SIRIANNI: “There are times for that and times that are not for that. I have to have wisdom and discernment. I love Rodney McLeod, and our conversation was all in good fun.”
Sirianni’s sideline antics have been a topic of discussion, but ultimately reflect his passion for the game. If his unfiltered approach helps the team improve, then perhaps it’s for the best, as long as he can focus that energy into achieving more wins.
