Super Bowl champion Nick Foles weighs in on the controversial “tush push” play, also known as the “Brotherly Shove,” performed by the Philadelphia Eagles. The play, which involves pushing the quarterback forward from behind, has stirred debate in the NFL community, with some questioning its fairness and safety.
In recent games, the Eagles’ execution of the “tush push” has led to observations of potential offside infractions by their offensive line. This has intensified the scrutiny surrounding the play and fueled discussions about whether it should be allowed in its current form.
Foles, a veteran quarterback, shared his perspective, stating that banning the “tush push” wouldn’t be justified. He emphasized the importance of coaching and player skill in the play’s success.
“I’m pro tush push,” Foles said. “Being there, I know the quality of offensive line coach they have in Jeff Stoutland. I know the quality of offensive linemen that they have and how they’re taught and the little details that make the play what it is.”
He also highlighted the role of Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, suggesting that Hurts’ skill and execution are key to the play’s effectiveness. Foles argued that any team could attempt the play, but the Eagles’ specific training and personnel contribute to their success.
Foles pointed out that proper officiating is crucial, regardless of the play. He noted that officials should focus on correctly calling any potential false starts or other infractions during the play.
“It’s up to the officials, not the Philadelphia Eagles, to officiate it correctly,” Foles stated. He acknowledged that while false starts might occur, they are the responsibility of the officials to identify and penalize, not a reflection of the Eagles intentionally cheating.
He recognizes the difficulty in officiating the play perfectly, particularly in real-time. He suggests that officials may need to utilize all available technology and training resources to ensure accurate calls. The priority, he emphasizes, should be on consistently enforcing existing rules.
According to Foles, banning the “tush push” would unfairly penalize the Eagles for excelling at a particular play. He compares it to other players and teams that have unique strengths, arguing that those advantages shouldn’t be eliminated simply because they are effective.
Foles also addressed concerns about potential injuries related to the “tush push.” He mentioned that, based on his conversations with offensive linemen, the players themselves feel relatively safe executing the play. They perceive the risk of injury as minimal due to the concentrated nature of the contact.
He noted that during his time with the Eagles in 2017 and 2018, the team had success with traditional quarterback sneaks. He views the “tush push” as an evolution of that play, building upon a strategy that was already working well.
Foles predicts that the NFL might consider some adjustments to the “tush push” in the future but believes it’s unlikely to be banned entirely. He suggests potential modifications, such as restricting the pushing of players from behind.
“I don’t see how they can ban it,” Foles said. “I think maybe they stop allowing players to push other players from the back, but I still think the play is successful. I don’t think that stops it, so they’ll probably make little changes here and there, but I don’t think they’ll ban it altogether.”
Throughout his 11-season NFL career, Foles played with several teams, including two different stints with the Eagles.
