Dan Campbell is preparing his Lions to play in Philadelphia against the Eagles on Sunday night, and he’s going to tell his team about his own experiences playing in front of Philly fans.
Campbell told 97.1 The Ticket that he has fond memories of all the awful things Eagles fans did when he was on the road there during his playing career.
“It’s a great place to play,” Campbell said. “It’s electric. Had batteries thrown at us, spit on, just the classic stuff. It’s probably the most hostile place to play. Going into the stadium, leaving it, during the game. Things have backed off a lot now since back in the day — some of these things you can’t do anymore.”
As a rookie in 1999, Campbell was playing for the Giants, and teammate Michael Strahan intercepted a pass and took it to the house in overtime to win the game against the Eagles. Campbell told a repulsive story about what a Philly fan with end zone seats did to Strahan during the ensuing celebration on the field.
“We all go back to meet him, and it was like a 64-ounce cup this guy had that was full of tobacco spit, and I’m running over there celebrating and he pours it on Strahan’s back while everybody is running over there,” Campbell said. “I backed off at the last minute. Just stuff like that. It’s a hostile environment, it gets you fired up. I’ll make sure our guys are prepared, They’re going to love this. Our guys are going to embrace this . This is fun stuff.”
Campbell said he’s preparing his players for a big game in Philadelphia, taking on the reigning Super Bowl champions on Sunday night.
“I’m going to give them a very good snapshot of what this is going to be like,” Campbell said. “Keep your poise, and every play matters. This is a heavyweight match. One misstep can cost you this game. That shouldn’t make you tight, that shouldn’t make you play conservative, just understand it’s going to take all three units and every play you’ve got to give it your full attention, and lay it on the freakin’ line. You can’t ask for anything better. Our guys are going to be so excited to play in this one. Our coaches are excited to coach in it. This is big-time football on Sunday night. We’re fired up.”
The Dallas Cowboys are mourning the sudden death of rookie defensive end Marshawn Kneeland. Owner Jerry Jones made his first public statement, emphasizing the deep impact Kneeland had on the organization and his teammates.
When asked about Kneeland’s death, Jones said to 105.3 The Fan that he was ‘devastated’. He added that it was hard to believe the content on the other phone in the middle of the night when they all received the news.
Jones described Kneeland as a bright presence in the locker room and praised the young player for his dedication and passion for the game. He said the entire team felt the loss profoundly.
“We all are having to share the sorrow, all are having to share the different ways or different things that come through your mind,” Jones said. “It’s not light that as a teammate, Marshawn touched everybody in many different ways.
The statement highlighted Kneeland’s work ethic and character. Jones shared that he consistently impressed coaches and veteran players, contributing both on the field and in practice sessions.
Cowboys players expressed grief over the loss. Many took to social media to honor Kneeland’s memory, sharing messages about his leadership, positivity, and influence on younger teammates.
Jones acknowledged the team’s need to support each other during this challenging period. He emphasized that player and staff well-being would be a priority while the organization navigates this tragedy.
The death occurred shortly after the conclusion of Dallas’ recent games. Kneeland had participated in team activities and was preparing for the upcoming schedule when news of his passing reached the franchise.
The Cowboys announced plans to honor Kneeland in upcoming games. Staff and players will wear commemorative patches and participate in pregame ceremonies to celebrate his life and contributions.
Jones also stressed the importance of family support for both Kneeland’s relatives and Cowboys personnel. Counseling and mental health resources were being made available to help players process their grief.
Team members reflected on Kneeland’s enthusiasm for football. He was described as a determined athlete who approached every practice and meeting with focus, helping elevate the overall performance of the defensive unit.
Fans and local community members joined in remembrance. Tributes included social media posts, moments of silence at team events, and statements from former teammates praising Kneeland’s influence both on and off the field.
The organization acknowledged the difficulty of moving forward while honoring his legacy. Jones said the team would carry forward Kneeland’s memory through their actions and commitment on the field.
Players and staff plan to participate in memorial events before upcoming matchups. The Cowboys are determined to ensure Kneeland’s contributions are remembered by the franchise, the fans, and the broader NFL community.
Jones concluded by encouraging unity. He stated that while the loss is tragic, the spirit Kneeland brought to the team will continue to inspire teammates and coaches throughout the season.
The Cowboys now focus on both grieving and preparing for future games. Marshawn Kneeland’s impact, dedication, and leadership will remain central to how the organization honors him moving forward.