Some Eagles players used the constant talk about the Chiefs chasing a historic three-peat to their advantage at Super Bowl 2025 in New Orleans.
After Philadelphia dominated Kansas City in a 40-22 victory at Caesars Superdome on Sunday, multiple defensive players explained that hearing about Kansas City’s dynastic run only fueled them to spoil it.
“That was motivation because it was kind of a slap to us,” Eagles veteran defensive end Brandon Graham said, according to ESPN. “It was like, they ain’t seen us yet. So, we heard that all week. And when the game came, execution was on point and together.”
The Eagles redeemed themselves after a crushing 38-35 loss to the Chiefs in Super Bowl 2023 in Glendale, Ariz.
Philadelphia defensive tackle Milton Williams got some added motivation after Miami Heat president Pat Riley agreed to allow the Chiefs to use his trademarked phrase, “Three-Peat” if they won Super Bowl 2025.
“Definitely,” said Williams when asked if he was fueled by that talk of a Chiefs’ three-peat. “They were talking about getting the copyright and all that B.S. Throw that s–t in the trash.”
Some Eagles’ players, such as defensive end Josh Sweat, shut out narratives and news about the Chiefs to remain focused leading up to the big game.
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“We didn’t change the game plan or anything,” Sweat said. “We just rush and cover together, and whoever made the play made it.
“[Defensive coordinator] Vic [Fangio] just made the calls, and we executed. He always puts us in the right position to make the plays, and it worked out.”
Philadelphia’s top-ranked defense put on a defensive clinic behind brilliant calls by Fangio on Sunday.
The Eagles’ defense overpowered Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes without sending a single blitz, pressuring him on 16 of his 42 dropbacks.
Mahomes was sacked a career-high six times and took 11 hits.
He threw two interceptions, including a pick-six in the second quarter to Eagles rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean, who celebrated his 22nd birthday Sunday.
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts had himself a night en route to being named Super Bowl MVP.
He completed 17-of-22 pases for 221 yards with two touchdowns and one interception.
Hurts was also the Eagles’ leading rusher with 72 yards on 11 attempts.
