
The Philadelphia Eagles have perfected a play that almost guarantees success near the goal line—known as the ‘Tush Push’. This play has sparked controversy in the NFL, particularly as teams push for its prohibition.
Currently, the Eagles are allowed to run the ‘Tush Push’, where quarterback Jalen Hurts is propelled through the defenders by teammates positioned behind him—namely the running back and tight end.
The Eagles have mastered the ‘Tush Push’, making it nearly impossible for defenses to halt, often resulting in penalty infractions by opposing teams.
In the NFC Championship game against the Washington Commanders, penalty chaos ensued when Commanders defensive lineman Jonathan Allen was flagged for an offsides call during the Eagles’ ‘Tush Push’. After failing to succeed on the first attempt, linebacker Frankie Luvu made contact with Hurts, resulting in an encroachment penalty.
Allen’s early movement led to multiple penalties, prompting officials to warn the Commanders they could allow the Eagles a free score if infractions persisted.
The Eagles won that game 55-23, ultimately winning the Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs.
While the Eagles aim to keep this tactic, others don’t share the same enthusiasm. NFL owners recently tabled a vote on this play after outcry from 16 teams, yet discussions for a potential ban continue as the spring meeting approaches.
Luvu has voiced his opposition to the play, expressing:
“My personal opinion? I think they should ban it, but I know the argument’s going to be about, ‘Hey, you guys have to stop it.’”
He denounces the tactic as ‘cheepo’, likening it to a rugby scrum and believes both teams should engage equally during the play.
The owners’ meeting is slated for May 20-21 in Minneapolis.