**Eagles’ Tush Push Play Set to Dominate NFL Season Opener**
The 2025 NFL season is set to begin on Thursday night with the Philadelphia Eagles, the reigning Super Bowl champions, taking the field. Fans can expect to see the team’s signature play—the controversial “tush push”—which successfully avoided a ban attempt during the offseason.
This short-yardage maneuver, also known as the “brotherly shove,” has become a key component of the Eagles’ offensive strategy. It leverages the strength of Philadelphia’s formidable offensive line, allowing teammates to push quarterback Jalen Hurts forward during sneaks, often leading to touchdowns or crucial first downs.
In May, a proposal from the Green Bay Packers to prohibit the play did not receive enough backing from NFL owners. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie reportedly delivered a passionate defense of the play, enlisting retired team legend Jason Kelce, who has been instrumental in executing the play, to advocate for its continuation.
The Eagles have demonstrated remarkable success with the tush push, most recently during their 40-22 Super Bowl victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in February, where Hurts was propelled into the end zone for a score. Critics argue that the tactic is unfair and poses safety risks; however, the NFL has found no evidence linking the play to injuries. NFL Competition Committee chair Rich McKay noted in April that the absence of safety data made it challenging to justify a ban.
Not all players share the same view. Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu labeled the play “cheap” after being penalized for jumping offsides during last season’s NFC Championship Game. In contrast, the Eagles maintain that any team can execute the play, though they may not achieve the same level of effectiveness. Tight end Dallas Goedert defended the play during Tight End University in June, stating, “It’s a great football play. If we can get nine yards, we believe we’re going to get the first down.”
As the NFL regular season kicks off, the Dallas Cowboys, a fierce rival of the Eagles, will be the first team tasked with stopping Hurts and the Eagles’ shove-powered offense at Lincoln Financial Field.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is the tush push play in the NFL?**
A: The tush push is a short-yardage play where teammates push the quarterback forward during sneaks, often resulting in a touchdown or first down.