Philly fans anxious, excited during busy sports stretch

It’s a busy time for Philadelphia sports fans.

All eyes were on the Eagles on Monday night as the team faced the Bears in Chicago. Fans packed Chickie’s and Pete’s in South Philadelphia to watch the game and cheer on the Birds.

“I love the Birds; I’m confident,” said Jamal Smith of South Philadelphia.

But football is far from the only thing on the minds of Philadelphia sports fans.

The Phillies have clinched a spot in the playoffs, though fans expressed mixed reactions about their postseason prospects.

“A little stressed, but I think everyone is,” said Matt Webster of Brewerytown.

Dawn Morrison of West Philadelphia described the tense road to the postseason, saying, “They barely made it; I was on pins and needles.”

The Phillies take on the Braves on Tuesday afternoon.

Meanwhile, the 76ers held a highly anticipated media day Monday, with LeBron James sporting a Sixers jersey for the first time.

“I am super-excited to get in front of these fans. They know sports. They know ball. And if you’re not doing what you’re supposed to, they are going to let you hear it,” James said.

Fans also welcomed Zach Ertz back to Philadelphia.

“I’m very happy to see Zach Ertz come back on to the field, so I’m excited about that,” Morrison said.

The excitement extends beyond football, baseball and basketball. The Union is riding a 12-game unbeaten streak in MLS, while the Flyers are set to open their season at home Wednesday.

For Morrison, the success across Philadelphia sports has created a welcome sense of optimism.

“I think the city is shining bright; we’re shining bright right now. It’s a good feeling; we need it,” she said.