When teams that usually play in domes have to brave the elements in key playoff contests, the results don't usually end up well for them.
That doesn't mean players who have experience in the elements like the cold either.
That's the reality for Sunday afternoon when the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams face off in the divisional round of the 2025 playoffs.
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While many Eagle players have experienced what kind of help the cold (and snow) can bring to the team - especially at home - not everyone is thrilled with that reality.
All-Pro tackle Jordan Mailata has been one of the best offensive players in the game since becoming the full-time starter in 2021. The Aussie-born star isn't exactly thrilled he has to play in predicted snowy conditions on Sunday, though.
“It’s miserable. It’s miserable. I am not going to lie,” Mailata said. “But that’s one of the advantages of playing at home. You’ve got to get used to this weather. For it to be very consistent weather, it’s good for us. But it’s whoever shows up on Sunday.”
Mailata's comments can be quite concerning for an Eagles team thought to be tougher and stronger than the upstart Rams.
For one thing, the Eagles have a tactical advantage having practiced and played in the cold air of Philadelphia over the last several weeks.
Stars like Lane Johnson and Brandon Graham were a part of the team's 2013 unit that actually won a regular season game against Matthew Stafford and the Detroit Lions in the snow.
The 2024 team is different, though.
And Mailata's comments won't exactly instill confidence in the team being fully prepared for a do-or-die playoff matchup.
