The “Tush Push”: The Eagles’ Secret Play That the Rest of the NFL Can’t Imitate?
In the world of American football, a play has generated as much debate as success: the “tush push”. This tactic, popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles, has proven to be almost unstoppable in fourth-down situations and one yard to advance. However, despite its effectiveness, most NFL teams remain on the sidelines, raising questions about its implementation and the reason for its limited adoption.
Atlanta Falcons coach Raheem Morris is a clear example of this reluctance. Morris, who opposes the “tush push”, questions its legality and has voted against its implementation. This stance is not isolated; only nine teams have executed the play ten or more times since 2022. Teams like the New Orleans Saints, Washington Commanders, Carolina Panthers, and Miami Dolphins have never attempted it.Los Eagles dominan el “tush push”, pero otras franquicias se muestran cautelosas, ya sea por temor a lesiones o por falta de personal adecuado. (Godofredo A. Vásquez/AP)The play, in essence, is simple: the quarterback receives the ball and throws himself forward behind his offensive line, while being pushed by his teammates. The Eagles have had remarkable success with this tactic, converting a significantly higher percentage of attempts compared to other fourth-down plays. The key lies in the strength and coordination of the offensive line, as well as the quarterback’s ability to find the right space.
However, the Eagles’ success has not been replicated by other teams. Although the average play success rate is high, many coaches and players have reservations. Some fear the risk of injury to quarterbacks, while others feel they do not have the right personnel to execute it effectively.
“There’s a secret ingredient they have compared to the others,” commented DeForest Buckner, Colts defensive tackle.
DeForest Buckner
Shane Steichen, now the coach of the Indianapolis Colts, was one of the pioneers in implementing the play during his time in Philadelphia. Steichen remembers the moment they realized the potential of the “tush push.” The play became a key element of the Eagles’ offense, and practice was reduced to a few minutes, relying on success on the field.Los Bills han intentado el “tush push” en 57 ocasiones desde 2022, con un 89.5% de éxito. (Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)Other teams have had the opportunity to emulate the Eagles. The Buffalo Bills are the closest, with a high success rate. The lack of success of other teams is due to a combination of factors, including the lack of a dominant offensive line and the absence of players with the necessary skills.
In addition to physical strength, a quarterback’s intuition is crucial. The Eagles’ Jalen Hurts has developed a special ability to find the gaps at the moment of contact, making it difficult to stop him. Other quarterbacks, like the Rams’ Matthew Stafford, do not have the same ease for this play, according to their coach.
Opposition to the “tush push” is also based on game philosophy. Some coaches prefer other strategies to gain yards in critical situations. Quarterback safety is another concern, and some players, like Kyler Murray, have expressed their refusal to participate in the play.Jalen Hurts y los Eagles han sido tan exitosos con el “tush push” que el entrenador de los Chiefs, Andy Reid, sospechó de posibles faltas. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)Despite the controversy, the “tush push” remains legal and available to all teams. However, most of the league still hasn’t found the formula to replicate the Eagles’ success. Lack of practice and concern for injuries are important factors limiting its adoption.
The question remains: will other teams be able to decipher the “tush push” code or will the Eagles continue to dominate this unique play? Time will tell, but for now, the rest of the league seems to be a step behind.
