“Not the smartest thing to say”: Saquon Barkley cautions Jared Verse for his comments about hating Eagles fans ahead of playoff faceoff

Rams rookie linebacker Jared Verse recently bashed the Philadelphia Eagles fan base, which later ignited a heated reply from Eagles running back Saquon Barkley. Barkley opined that maybe something of that nature will get Eagles fans fired up for the upcoming playoff match.Saquon Barkley warns Jared Verse’s remarks could fuel hostility from Eagles fans. Rams edge rusher Jared Verse did himself any good by proclaiming he "hates Eagles fans" before Sunday's divisional playoff game at Lincoln Financial Field."Probably not the smartest thing to say when you're coming to Philadelphia," Barkley said. "I've been on the other side as a member of the New York Giants and even if I felt some type of way, I probably wouldn't give them any extra fuel. I'm pretty sure Philly fans have seen that comment. It was already going to be loud and rocking so it's just only going to add to it."Verse garnered the city's interest with his statements in the Los Angeles Times, referring to Eagles fans as "annoying" and mentioning a physical response to their team colors. "When I see that green and white I hate it," he said. "I actually get upset. Like I actually genuinely get hot.”Growing up just outside Philadelphia did little to foster any affection for the Eagles in Verse. His animosity was strengthened after a Week 12 game at SoFi Stadium, where he said Eagles fans directed offensive remarks toward him.The Los Angeles Rams are set to face the Philadelphia Eagles in a Divisional Round playoff game at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 12:00 PM PST. Philadelphia is predicted to see 3-5 inches of snow on Sunday, which could add to the drama for Verse and the Rams during the game.“He ain't the first person to hate Eagles fans. There's a lot of folks who don't like Eagles fans. There's some people that played for the Eagles that don't like Eagles fans," Eagles cornerback Darius Slay said. "That just comes with the sport."I think Eagles fans are fired up regardless. They don't have to say another word. And if there's snow out there, I won't be surprised if snowballs get thrown on the sideline."Also Read: "They have no interest”: NFL insider confirms that the Pittsburgh Steelers have denied any interest in Aaron RodgersVerse’s statements have generated chatter among both fans and players, spotlighting the rivalry between the teams. Eagles fans are well-known for their passionate allegiance, and Verse’s words have increased the tension surrounding the forthcoming game.