The Tush Push: A Game-Changer in the NFL

The tush push, a short-yardage play popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles, has become one of the most debated tactics in the NFL. With a staggering 96.6% success rate on fourth-and-1 situations since 2022, the Eagles have turned this play into a near-automatic first-down machine. Yet, despite its effectiveness, the rest of the league remains hesitant to embrace it.

What is the Tush Push?

The tush push involves quarterback Jalen Hurts taking the snap and diving forward behind a powerful offensive line, while teammates push him from behind. The play’s simplicity and efficiency have made it a cornerstone of the Eagles’ short-yardage offense. However, its success has also sparked controversy, with many coaches and teams questioning its legality and safety.

Why Aren’t More Teams Using It?

1. Injury Concerns: Many coaches fear the physical toll on quarterbacks. The play exposes them to significant contact, increasing the risk of injury. For example, Kyler Murray of the Cardinals has openly expressed his reluctance to run the play after a painful experience early in his career.

2. Lack of Personnel: The play requires a unique combination of a strong offensive line and a physically powerful quarterback. Not every team has a player like Hurts, who is known for his lower-body strength and ability to withstand the physical demands of the play.

3. Philosophical Differences: Some teams prefer alternative short-yardage strategies. For instance, the Kansas City Chiefs rely on tight ends for quarterback sneaks, while the Dallas Cowboys have developed their own plays to attack the A-gap.

4. Practice Limitations: The tush push is difficult to replicate in practice without risking injuries. As Shane Steichen, former Eagles offensive coordinator, noted, the Eagles perfected the play by running it repeatedly in games, not during practice.

The League’s Response

The tush push has faced significant opposition within the NFL. During the 2025 league meetings, 22 teams voted to ban the play, falling just two votes short of passage. Critics argue that the play is dangerous and goes against the spirit of the game. However, for now, it remains legal, and the Eagles continue to dominate with it.

The Eagles’ Secret Sauce

The Eagles’ success with the tush push is not just about execution; it’s about their personnel. Hurts’ strength, combined with a dominant offensive line led by players like Jason Kelce, has made the play nearly unstoppable. Other teams, like the Buffalo Bills, have attempted to replicate the play but with limited success.

The Future of the Tush Push

While the tush push remains a polarizing topic, its effectiveness is undeniable. As long as the Eagles continue to dominate with it, other teams may be forced to reconsider their stance. However, until the league addresses the safety concerns and finds a way to level the playing field, the tush push will remain a unique weapon in the Eagles’ arsenal.

Conclusion

The tush push is a testament to the Eagles’ innovation and adaptability. While the rest of the NFL debates its merits, the Eagles have mastered the play, turning it into a defining feature of their offense. Whether other teams will follow suit remains to be seen, but for now, the tush push is here to stay.