It is a new season, a fresh start. The playoffs offer exactly zero margin for error except this: What happened earlier in the season is in the past and postseason football is a very different game. Ball security is at a premium. Mental mistakes are exacerbated. Missed tackles and opportunities blow up in a team’s face.
So as the Eagles and Head Coach Nick Sirianni begin their week of preparation for Monday night’s Wild Card Playoff game at Tampa Bay, it’s all on the line. And when things are all on the line, leadership takes an even more important role in the fortunes of a team.
That’s what Sirianni is counting on with his football team.
“I think anyone can lead when times are easy. When times are hard, this is when you see what you’re made of and how you lead. And so, I look at it as a challenge that I know we can get out of this slump that we’re in. It’s my job to make sure that we do, and I look at it as a challenge and how sweet it will be when we do get out of it because I know we will, and I know we’ve got the right guys to get out of it,” Sirianni said at Monday’s virtual press conference. “And what a week to go out there and try to do it this week against Tampa Bay. And so obviously, anytime you’re going through challenges, it’s a challenge, right? It’s a challenge, but it also feels like the steps that have led you to this moment of being in these jobs, or being in a seat where the players are that have built you for this, right?
“We’ve all faced adversity on our way to get to where we are right now. And I’m speaking of this group of Philadelphia Eagles, right, and I know that I can look at one of the main adversities I’ve been through and say – maybe the biggest adversity I’ve been through – and say that’s why I’m sitting here in this seat right now. I know that 100 percent.
“And so, like I said, anybody can lead in times of great joy. What’s inside you and what can you do in times of trials and tribulations? And so, I look at it as a challenge, and I’m damn for sure up for that challenge.”
Philadelphia defeated the Bucs 25-11 in Week 3 in Tampa, dominating on the ground with 201 rushing yards, closing off Tampa Bay’s offensive firepower, and eating up the final 9-plus minutes of the clock with a 15-play drive. It was a terrific road win, something Sirianni is reminded of as he watches the film of that game.
His focus was primarily on the offense and how to go after Tampa Bay based on how things went way back in September.
