Eagles fans feasting on another win

The Eagles largely unexpected success this year has taken many fans pleasantly by surprise.  After defeating the Bears yesterday, the team has 10 wins and just one loss and is now highly likely to make the playoffs.

I happened to score a ticket to the game, so I hopped on the subway and made my way down to Lincoln Financial Field to take in the game — and to find out how fans are feeling about their team.

I emerged from AT&T Station yesterday afternoon to an electric atmosphere.  Even though the game wouldn’t start for 45 minutes, the party had begun hours ago.

Some of the tailgaters, including Gillian Sweeney, summed up the sentiment bluntly.

“The Eagles used to be s–t, now they’re amazing.  And if you’re an Eagles fan, it’s great,” Sweeney said.

The team has outperformed early expectations, and fans can cite many reasons why.  Here are just a few:

“Front seven, offensive line, Carson’s composure in the pocket.” — Gary Williams

‘‘Having running backs this season.  Feels like we went from like zero to two, which is great.  I love it.  So that’s good.” — Jeff Schuler

“The consistency week to week.  They really play the same level regardless of who they’re playing.” — Peter Ladig

The Birds put this one away early, scoring 24 points before halftime.

It all ended with a fizzle. With the game firmly in hand, the team pulled their starters and ran out the clock.

A satisfied crowd made their way out of the Linc. As confident as they are now, most are only talking about going into the playoffs, ever-aware of past years when the team snatched defeat from the jaws of victory.

But heading into December with only one loss gets at least some fans thinking of the ultimate goal.  “I think they’re looking really good at this point and hopefully they’ll get the number one seed and take us to the Super Bowl,” said fan Kyle Manahan.

It was another good day to be an Eagles fan.