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7 Comments (5 conversations)
Steve Cleff
Great article Les. It’s very strange to see such a vendetta against something so insignificant. I have to imagine this will fuel the “we’re underdogs even though we’re favored to win the Super Bowl” motivation for this year’s team.
Thanks for answering my question on Bluesky about this.
Les Bowen
Welcome!
Sam B
Well written, Les. While it wouldn’t make me any happier about the movement to ban the play, I would at least respect teams that voted against the play more if they were honest about their reasons. I agree with Steve’s comment regarding the added motivation for the 2025 Eagles.
Even if the play was banned, with their offensive line and QB I believe the Eagles would still be effective in converting in those short-yardage situations.
Jim Kempner
I’m an Eagles fan, so I’m happy the play survives. However, I’d rather do away with all pushing of ball carriers anywhere in the field. Unfortunately, that would lead to more and more frustration over missed calls, so it’s a no on that rule change as well.
One aspect ignored with the current tush-push is the increase in going for it on fourth down v. punting or FG attempts compared to years ago. 4th downs are a lot more exciting.
In any case, I don’t think it matters. Hurts and the Eagles’ O-line would convert QB sneaks regardless.
Les Bowen
Good point about fourth downs
Michael Moffitt
This is about more than one yard. It’s about the mentality that the Eagles believe its 1st and 8 instead of 1st and 10. They know they own those last 2 yards and so do their opponents. It affects their play calling every play of every series, not just 3rd or 4th down. This is a league-wide conspiracy to stop the Eagle dynasty. Now, they’re starting on how we do players contracts. I’ve never seen anything like this is any sport.
Richard Spooner
Les, A field goal does not look like soccer to anything near the extent that our brotherly shove looks like rugby. Having said that, you’re right that teams just want to try and weaken the Eagles. I guess we better get ready for Goodell and his loyalists to try again next offseason?