There was a time, not too long ago, when the Philadelphia Eagles went 12 years without winning a postseason game, 1980–1992. In fact, they only won 2 playoff games over 20 years; 1/25/1981 through 12/30/2000.
If you became an Eagles via birthright, like so many in the Delaware Valley, you have heard the previous generations talk about the futility of the franchise over their lifetimes. The Eagles won a meager 9 playoff games over the first 67 years of its existence, 1933 through 2000.
Happy Birds
They have won 9 playoff games over the last 18 years.
The type of success the Eagles have had since the millennium is not only the best in their franchise history, but it is the 3rd best in the entire NFL over this span.
As much as fans complain about this team, they are better than 29 other teams, as far as post-season appearances, over the last 24 years.
Since 2000, this is the 16th year that they have made the playoffs.
They have also won 16 post-season games during this stretch, appeared in three SBs, and finally won it all, during their most likely opportunity, in 2017.
They are competitive, they have an owner who cares, and a GM who is thought of as one of the best in the league.
Fighting History
There will be bumps in the road, and every season presents its own challenges, but there is a reason only 3 teams that have lost the Super Bowl have made it back to win the following season over the last 56 years. It is very difficult, and this problem is not exclusive to Philadelphia.
The ’70 Cowboys, the ’71 Dolphins, who came back in 1972 to have the perfect season, and the 2017 New England Patriots (who lost to the Eagles) and came back in 2018 to win, are the only 3 franchises who have accomplished that feat. The Eagles are trying to be number four.
Hopeful Birds
So while it has been a disappointing 5 weeks, after what was an enjoyable start to the 2023 season, keep in mind they do still have a chance to win. Eighteen other franchises would gladly take on the Eagles problems to still be playing for a chance at Super Bowl glory.
Enjoy the process, and the games. Spend this time with family and friends, enjoying a good meal and the time you all have together making memories. Remember that as frustrating as this season has been at times, the only year they have won a Super Bowl is when they were the underdogs in every single playoff game.
The most Philly thing ever would be to win it all when it seems hopeless, once again.
Go Birds!
As always, thank you for reading!
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AP Photo/Matt Slocum
