NFL’s Tush Push Survives: Eagles’ Play Remains Legal
PHILADELPHIA – May 9, 2024 – The controversial “Tush Push,” a play favored by the Philadelphia Eagles, will remain legal in the NFL after a vote failed to ban it this week. The Eagles’ potent play’s future was in question, but a proposal to outlaw the Tush Push fell short, with the required three-quarters majority not achieved by the Packers’ effort. It’s a play the Eagles have mastered, so expect some further analysis.
NFL’s “Tush Push” Survives: Philadelphia Eagles’ Controversial Play Remains Legal
The Philadelphia Eagles’ potent “Tush Push” play will remain a legal maneuver in the National Football League. A proposal to ban the play failed to garner the necessary support from team owners during a recent vote. The vote, held Wednesday, fell short of the required three-quarters majority, with sources indicating the ban was just two votes shy of passage.
the Vote and Its Aftermath
The “Tush Push,” also known as the “Brotherly Shove,” has been a subject of intense debate among NFL fans and analysts alike. The Green Bay Packers initiated the discussion to ban the play, leading to a postponed decision at an April 1 meeting. Ultimately, only 22 of the 32 teams voted in favor of the ban, falling short of the 24 votes needed for a rule change.
Did you know?
The “Tush Push” involves the quarterback being pushed forward by teammates from behind, typically during short-yardage situations. It’s designed to gain a crucial first down or score a touchdown.
The Eagles responded to the failed ban with a defiant message on X, formerly known as Twitter. They posted a picture of quarterback Jalen Hurts during a game against the Packers,accompanied by the caption: Push on.
The Controversy Behind the Play
The “Tush Push” has drawn comparisons to rugby due to its physical nature.Teammates push and pull their quarterback forward, resembling a steam rack into the end zone.
Critics, including some coaches, argue that the play poses an increased risk of injury to players involved.
Pro Tip
Teams looking to defend against the “Tush Push” often focus on disrupting the initial push and maintaining low leverage to prevent forward momentum.
Despite the concerns, the Eagles have mastered the “Tush Push,” utilizing it effectively even in high-stakes situations. during the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs, led by superstar Patrick Mahomes, the Eagles successfully executed the play. As 2022, the team has scored 30 touchdowns using this method.
Player Viewpoint
Eagles center Cam Jurgens addressed the potential ban before the vote, stating:
If you forbid him, then forbid him. It is not in my hand. I have the feeling that it is a move that we enjoy and we play it really well. It would be a shame if they would take it out of our hands.
Cam Jurgens, Philadelphia Eagles Center
