The Philadelphia Eagles will host the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday in the Divisional Round, with snow expected to play a role at Lincoln Financial Field.
This will be the second time these two NFC teams meet this season. Back in Week 12, the Eagles left Los Angeles with a 37-20 victory over the Rams.
For Rams star linebacker Jared Verse, this matchup has an extra layer of meaning. While he was born in Dayton, Ohio, Verse grew up in Berwick, Pennsylvania, and played high school football there.
His time in the state grew his feeling of "hate" toward the Eagles and their die-hard fan base. Those feelings strengthened after the Eagles and their fans traveled to Los Angeles in Week 12.
"I hate Eagles fans," Verse told Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times. "They’re so annoying... I didn't even do nothing to 'em. It was my first time playing. Oh, I hate Eagles fans... When I see that green and white, I hate it. I actually get upset. Like I actually genuinely get hot."
Philadelphia Eagles' Saquon Barkley and Los Angeles Rams' Jared Verse in Week 12.
© Alex Gallardo-Imagn Images
On Friday, Eagles running back Saquon Barkley was asked about the rookie's comments.
"Probably not the smartest thing to say when you're coming to Philadelphia," Barkley responded. "I've been on the other side, and even if I felt some type of way, I probably wouldn't give them any extra fuel. Pretty sure Philly fans have seen that comment. It was already going to be loud and rocking, so just only going to add to it."
In the last meeting with the Rams, Barkley recorded two touchdowns, carried the ball 26 times for 255 yards and added 47 receiving yards. Verse, meanwhile, matched his career high with seven tackles.
The kickoff between the Eagles and Rams is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. According to ESPN BET, Philadelphia is currently a 6.5-point favorite.
