• Jared Verse expresses hatred for Eagles fans, stirring controversy before Rams-Eagles matchup.
• Saquon Barkley advises Verse against his comments, calling them "not the smartest."
• Verse, having grown up near Philadelphia, is bracing for a harsh reception from Eagles fans.
• Philly fans are expected to respond vocally at the upcoming game as revenge for Verse's comments.

In a recent showdown of words, Los Angeles Rams rookie Jared Verse publicly declared his disdain for Eagles fans, stating, "I hate Eagles fans," which has drawn significant backlash ahead of their crucial matchup on Sunday (read more on USA Today). Having attended high school in Pennsylvania, Verse surely knows the passionate nature of Eagles fans, who are expected to retaliate vocally during the game.

In light of these remarks, veteran Eagles running back Saquon Barkley expressed concern about Verse's choice of words, suggesting that it was a misstep to provoke the notoriously vibrant Philadelphia crowd. Barkley stated, "Probably not the smartest thing to say when you’re coming to Philadelphia," acknowledging the loud and fervent atmosphere Verse will face (as reported by AP News).

Verse commented on social media's response to his declaration, noting that he was bombarded with messages in the wake of his comments. "I check my phone and my Twitter blowing up out of nowhere," he recalled, summing up the intense reaction from fans (see more in the AP News piece).

This exchange highlights the thrilling atmosphere of NFL rivalries, as verse prepares for a difficult first experience against an expectant crowd. He'll need to channel that energy positively as he takes the field in the upcoming game, where his performance will be under the scrutiny of both Rams fans and the passionate Eagles supporters.

As the Rams take on the Eagles, all eyes will be on how Verse handles the pressure of the sidelines and the fanfare of the Philadelphia faithful.