The Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders were more than just division rivals Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field as they played for a spot in Super Bowl LIX.
But one thing both fanbases could agree on was how great the national anthem performance was before the game.
Fans took to social media to express their love for the patriotic scene, which involved an actual Eagle, a brilliant rendition of Mark Kate Morrissey, who plays Elphaba in Broadway’s “Wicked,” and fighter jets doing a flyover.
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Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels kneels before the start of the NFC Championship against the Eagles, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)
“I’m not an Eagles fan but their national anthem is the absolute best with the bald eagle flying in the stadium,” wrote one X user. “It can’t get any better.”
“Absolutely beautiful!” one more added.
An American flag the size of the football field was displayed by several fans, creating a perfect wide view of the entire scene before the two teams went to work on the gridiron.
But the live eagle that flew around the stadium from one coach to the other as Morrissey climaxed “The Star-Spangled Banner” was the most talked about on social media.
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Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley runs the ball for a touchdown against the Washington Commanders during the first half of the NFC Championship at Lincoln Financial Field. (Eric Hartline-Imagn Images)
A general view during the national anthem before the start of the game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. (Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports/File)
“Not an Eagles fan but DAMN…the Bald Eagle flying during the national anthem brought tears to my eyes with pride,” said another X user.
When Morrissey finished singing, four F-16s from the 177th Fighter Wing flew over the stadium and put the cherry on top of the patriotic scene.
Things got off to a hot start for the Eagles faithful in this game as well, as the home team saw star running back Saquon Barkley score two touchdowns in the first quarter, including one on the Eagles’ first offensive snap of the game to take a commanding start.
Many teams sit out their national anthems during the season, but fans believe the Eagles are the cream of the crop after what happened in this conference championship game.
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