Minneapolis is buzzing as the NFL prepares for an important vote this Wednesday during the league meeting. The Green Bay Packers have put forward a revised proposal aimed at banning the controversial “Tush Push” play, which played a significant role in the Philadelphia Eagles’ journey to the 2024 Super Bowl.
The revised proposal by the Packers is broader than earlier versions and mirrors the NFL’s rules from 1920 to 2005. This previous rule prohibited players from pushing or pulling the ball carrier in any direction. If the proposal passes and secures the necessary 24 votes from league owners, it would effectively spell the end for the Tush Push, a play that has frustrated many teams, particularly after its success with the Eagles.
While there’s speculation that teams could find alternative methods to replicate the Tush Push, any variation would more likely resemble a traditional quarterback sneak, which lacks the push factor that has made the original play so successful. The Packers, alongside 15 other teams, expressed their desire to ban the play, primarily citing safety concerns though the NFL has not found evidence linking the play to injury risks.
The Packers, who faced the Eagles in this past January’s NFC wild-card round, are leading the charge against the play. Team president Mark Murphy has been vocal in his criticism, pointing out how the Tush Push lacks skill and often guarantees a first down on short yardage plays. He noted, “There used to be a rule prohibiting this, but it is no longer enforced because it was thought too hard for officials to see.” Murphy believes reverting to the earlier rule would benefit the game by restoring the traditional quarterback sneak.
Despite the growing support to ban the play among NFL owners, the Eagles are likely to oppose any changes. Running back Saquon Barkley recently fired back at critics, saying, “If you don’t like it, get better at stopping it.” This shows the confidence the Eagles have in their ability to execute the play while also signaling the division in opinions surrounding it.
As the NFL gears up for this crucial vote, all eyes will be on Minneapolis to see if the Tush Push will remain a part of the game or be written into history.
