Getty Image / Tim Nwachukwu
At this point, it’s no secret that the San Francisco 49ers are still a bit bitter about losing to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFL Playoffs last season.
Multiple 49ers players have made comments about their disdain for Philadelphia. Now, it appears head coach Kyle Shanahan is fueling the rivalry.
According to David Lombardi, the 49ers are set to play the Eagles in Week 13 of the 2023 season, keeping the rivalry alive.
Shanahan was reportedly asked about that specific matchup and claims that he’s happy, “we’re not playing Philly Week 1.” But follows that up with some bold comments for the upcoming game late in the season.
Kyle Shanahan last night on 49ers' Week 13 game at PHI:
"I am glad we’re not playing Philly Week 1. I want to play them at a better time. I want to make sure our whole team is right there. … We feel like we didn’t get to do it last time, and I’m ready to go back again."
— David Lombardi (@LombardiHimself) May 11, 2023
Clearly, Shanahan and the 49ers have this game marked down on their schedule. And why wouldn’t they? San Francisco very much wants revenge for losing to the Eagles in the NFL Playoffs.
They could certainly get that revenge in a potentially important Week 13 matchup.
Even so, it’s a bit odd to see one franchise be so obsessed with seeking revenge on another team. This is the best example of allowing someone to live rent free in your head.
NFL fans sure seem to agree.
This is sad lol
— Scotty – Sixers in 7 🌅 (@ScottyDrowned) May 11, 2023
You never know what the roster will even look like that late in the season. That goes for every team in the league.
I understand what Shanahan is saying but by Week 13, we don't know what this team is going to look like from a health standpoint? We don't know when Brock Purdy will be back or how he'll play? It could be Trey Lance for all we know.
— Patrick Tulini (@PTulini) May 11, 2023
It’s hard to disagree here.
At this point even Niners fans have to be embarrassed at how the team has whined about getting blown out 3 months ago.
— Brian Coulter (@PhilaBCoulter) May 11, 2023
Eagles fans are really letting the 49ers have it.
That whole team is soft
— Sil (@SilJD22) May 11, 2023
Even so, this Week 13 game should be highly anticipated once it comes about. Hopefully, both teams can stay healthy and competitive.
If that’s the case, then this contest could yield major playoff implications. Keep an eye on this 49ers-Eagles rivalry, as it could be one of the most intense matchups of the year.