It had been a long time since I had been in the parking lot before an Eagles game.
I forgot how good it smelled.
We did our pregame Fancast from the parking lot of Lincoln Financial Field. We had a blast. Little did we know that was going to be the highlight of our day.
Our thanks to my co-host, sports writer Steve Lienert, and his pals who graciously allowed us to set up shop outside the SUV, which supplied us with all the power – and food and drink – we would need.
There was a time when I did this every Sunday in the fall. It seems like a lifetime ago now. This was before marriage. Before kids. Before a job change that saw me working on Sundays for many years.
And of course it was before the Internet, and the idea of a newspaper doing a pre-game show that is live-streamed on its website.
If you missed the Fancast, you can check it out here.
We used to tailgate, but it paled in comparison with what I saw yesterday.
For starters, I know we used to get to the stadium pretty early, but what I saw yesterday takes it to a whole new level.
We were pulling into the lot around 9:45 to get set up for our 11 a.m. start time. The place was already packed.
This first thing that smacks you in the face when you roll down the window is the smell. Barbecue, specifically. Everywhere is the delicious aroma of meat simmering on grills.
These weren’t the little hibachis we used to set up on the ramp to the old JFK Stadium, where we used to hold our weekly pre-game party before heading into Veterans Stadium. I couldn’t believe how many full-size grills, smokers and other barbecue pits I saw set up.
That’s not the only thing that’s changed. We used to drive to the games. Today it seems the SUV – or better yet RV – is the accepted means of transportation.
The RVs in particular were impressive, and make the perfect party headquarters.
If you’re in the parking lot between the Linc and First Union Center, by all means stop by. We’re planning to be out there doing a pre-game show before every home game.
We’ll bring the Internet; you bring the food.
A win would be nice as well. Eagles fans waited a long time to get a glimpse at their "dream team." Maybe that's why the atmosphere in the parking lot was so electric.
Unfortunately, then game started, and the Eagles again proved this "dream" is more nightmare. Maybe the team should walk through the parking lot before the game to see the kind of passion they so clearly lacked in a lackluster, disturbing effort.
But that's the thing about Philly fans. Players come and go. So do coaches. Except maybe Andy Reid, who doesn't appear to be going anywhere, nor changing his arrogant way.
That's why my guess is the parking lot will be packed again next Sunday. Hope - and tailgating - apparently spring eternal.
See you outside the Linc!
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