On Sunday evening, the Penn community gathered across campus to watch the Philadelphia Eagles take on the Kansas City Chiefs. After the Eagles’ devastating loss two years ago, students were ready to watch the Eagles take home their second-ever Super Bowl victory. From Houston Hall to the high rise rooftop lounges, see how The Daily Pennsylvanian’s photographers captured a night filled with anticipation, excitement, and emotion. 

At around 6 p.m., students began filing into Houston Hall for a University-sponsored watch party. Attendees quickly took advantage of the free food and drinks as well as a photo booth. By the time the game started, more than 150 people were in attendance, watching from the game room, Bodek Lounge, and the Hall of Flags. 

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Students erupted into cheers when Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts scored the first touchdown of the game. At Houston Hall, some watchers began singing the Eagles’ fight song, “Fly, Eagles, Fly,” while others discussed their predictions and bets. 

Emily Branch, a graduate student at the Stuart Weitzman School of Design, said she enjoyed the energy of the watch party. 

“I’m not a big football fan, but I like fun and this is fun,” she said. “[After the game], I would like to head to Broad Street, just to see the vibe.”

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The high rises also hosted watch parties, with students watching as Philadelphia’s skyline — lit up green in honor of the Eagles — shined through the windows. Around 60 people gathered in Rodin College House’s rooftop lounge, cheering as the Eagles gained momentum in the second quarter.

College first year Tatiana Wilkins said she wasn’t from Philadelphia but was very excited at how the game was going.

“I love the Super Bowl,” she said. “I’m very excited to be here and I’m excited to see everybody all excited and congregated together. Go Eagles!”

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Over at Du Bois College House, Eagles fans and non-Eagles fans alike celebrated as the team scored a second and third touchdown. College first year Justin Mebane and Nursing first year Jasyn Truitt said they felt happy to be around their friends. 

“I’m not really an Eagles fan, but I think [the Super Bowl] presents a very interesting social opportunity for everyone on campus to come and be together,” Mebane said. “In fact, I’m hoping that the Eagles lose … I’m not an Eagles fan, [I’m] born and raised a Commanders fan.” 

College sophomore Adannia Agbo, who organized the Du Bois watch party, said she was excited to see everyone coming together.

“Honestly speaking, I don’t completely understand football, but I do enjoy that a sport or an event can bring all these people together,” she said. “I just enjoy seeing people come together for one thing, having a common goal.”

Other watch parties across campus, from Lauder College House to Smokey Joe’s, saw turnout increase as the night went on. When the fourth quarter started with the Eagles in a clear lead, students began to celebrate early. 

College sophomore Charity Robbins said she felt the Eagles’ victory brought the city hope. 

“Especially in Philly, it’s [considered] the poorest, largest, city in America, and a lot of people think because of that we can’t do big things. I think this will really inspire a lot of Philadelphians beyond just sports,” Robbins said. “It’s never just sports.”

Nursing sophomore Daja Wilson said she agreed with Robbins. 

“We have a lot of violence in our city, and I feel like the Eagles brings us all together,” Wilson said. “This is one time where we actually feel like a city together, like, that’s the brotherly love everyone talks about.”

Elation spread across campus as the Eagles officially defeated the Chiefs with a final score of 40–22. While some turned in for the night, many more made their way to Broad Street to celebrate in true Philadelphia fashion.

Staff photographers Ebunoluwa Adesida and Sydney Curran contributed reporting.