The Eagles are masters at connecting with their fan base, affectionately known as the “Bird Gang.” Their content—whether it’s locker room interviews, game recaps, or heartfelt tributes to their city—makes fans feel like they’re part of the team.
Marketers should take a page from this playbook. Marketing and more specifically content marketing isn’t just about selling a product; it’s about building relationships. Like the Eagles, focus on authenticity and relatability. Share behind-the-scenes moments, user-generated content, and stories that reflect the values of your audience. When your audience feels included and seen, they’ll become more than customers—they’ll become fans.
Growing up in Philadelphia in the 70s and 80s, I was surrounded by winning teams: the Flyers won the Stanley Cup in ’73-’74 and ’74-’75; the Phillies took the World Series in ’80, and the 76ers in ’83. But true Philadelphia fandom hangs on the Eagles, and every fan has had a long wait to see our team claim a Super Bowl championship. We lost to Oakland in ’81 and the Patriots in ’05. It wasn’t until 2018 that the pain ended – and and our 2025 win was one for the books. While their success on the field is fueled by grit, strategy, and execution, there are many elements we marketers can take away from the Iggles. Whether you’re crafting a marketing plan or rethinking your tactics for 2025, the Eagles’ playbook inspires a few lessons.
Smashmouth Football Meets Marketing
The Eagles’ identity on the field has historically been about smashmouth football—dominating the trenches with a relentless offensive line, hard-hitting defense, and a never-back-down mentality. Modern marketing requires the same approach: bold, aggressive, and calculated.
Today’s digital landscape is crowded and competitive, and passive strategies won’t cut it. To win, brands must be proactive. That means taking risks with bold creative campaigns, optimizing relentlessly, and using data to bulldoze obstacles. Just as the Eagles adapt their game plan depending on their opponent, marketers must pivot strategies based on real-time insights, ensuring they’re always one step ahead of the competition.
It’s hard being a Bostonian Eagles fan—but it’s totally worth it. As an Eagles fan living in Boston, I know all too well how loyalty can be tested. Surrounded by Patriots, Red Sox, Celtics and Bruins diehards, I face constant reminders that my allegiance is, let’s say, regionally unconventional. But here’s the thing—staying true to what brings you joy, even when it’s hard, is what fandom (and life) is all about.
The same applies to marketing. Success comes when you stay authentic to your brand, even in the face of pressure to conform. So here’s to flying high with bold strategies and unwavering loyalty. And here’s to the team that has kept this fan passionate and hopeful for many years. Go Birds!
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