Eagles’ ‘Enemies List’ Explodes as Tush Push Ban Sparks Outrage – Who’s Next to Feel the Heat?

April 3, 2025 – The debate surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles’ signature “Tush Push” play has ignited a firestorm across the NFL. As a proposed ban on the tactic surfaced during the league’s annual owners’ meeting, the Eagles’ so-called “enemies list” is growing longer, fueling outrage among fans and analysts alike. What makes this play so controversial, and which teams might be next to face the wrath of Philly faithful? Let’s dive into the drama shaking up the football world.

What Is the Tush Push, and Why Does It Matter to the Eagles?

The Tush Push, affectionately dubbed the “Brotherly Shove” by Eagles fans, is a short-yardage offensive play that Philadelphia has mastered in recent seasons. In this strategy, quarterback Jalen Hurts takes the snap and surges forward, propelled by a powerful push from teammates behind him—typically the offensive line and a running back. This coordinated effort often bulldozes through opposing defenses, securing crucial first downs or touchdowns.

According to ESPN stats, the Eagles boast an 87% success rate with the Tush Push over the past two seasons, making it a near-unstoppable weapon. This play has been pivotal in key victories, including their Super Bowl run in 2023. With Hurts’ athleticism and an elite offensive line led by stars like Jason Kelce (before his retirement) and Lane Johnson, the Tush Push has become synonymous with Eagles football. But its dominance has ruffled feathers across the league, prompting calls for a ban—and a growing list of detractors.

The Push to Ban the Tush Push: Who’s Leading the Charge?

At the NFL’s annual meeting in early 2025, the Green Bay Packers formally proposed a rule change to outlaw players from pushing a teammate forward immediately after the snap—a direct shot at the Tush Push. The Packers argued that the play undermines the game’s competitive balance and poses safety risks to defenders. Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott, a member of the NFL Competition Committee, echoed these concerns, citing potential injuries, even though his team has employed the Tush Push with some success.

Critics, however, aren’t buying it. An anonymous NFL executive told ESPN the proposal reeks of “jealousy” and lacks substance. “The Eagles perfected something others can’t replicate—why punish excellence?” the exec asked. Injury data tied to the Tush Push remains scarce, weakening the safety argument. Still, the vote on April 1, 2025, revealed a divided league: 16 teams supported the ban, falling short of the 24 votes needed to pass. For now, the Tush Push lives on for the 2025 season—but the controversy is far from over.

The fallout? A burgeoning “enemies list” of teams that dared to challenge Philly’s prized play, sparking heated debates online and in locker rooms.

The Eagles’ Enemies List: Who Voted Against Them?

While the NFL hasn’t officially released the names of the 16 teams that backed the ban, leaks and social media buzz have painted a target on several franchises. The Green Bay Packers, who spearheaded the effort, top the list. After losing to the Eagles in a January 2025 Wild Card game—where the Tush Push sealed their fate—Green Bay’s bitterness seems palpable. Fans on X have already dubbed them “Public Enemy No. 1” in Philly.

Other suspects include NFC East rivals Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants, both of whom have struggled to stop the Tush Push in divisional matchups. The Cowboys’ vaunted defense has been repeatedly embarrassed by the play, giving them motive to support a ban. Meanwhile, the Giants saw two defenders sidelined with injuries while attempting to halt it in 2023, fueling speculation about their stance. Neither team has confirmed their vote, but Eagles fans aren’t waiting for proof—they’re ready to unleash their fury.

Beyond the division, teams like the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions—playoff contenders who’ve faced Philly’s physicality—could also be in the crosshairs. The 49ers, in particular, have a history of tense battles with the Eagles, including the 2023 NFC Championship. Did they vote to level the playing field? The speculation is rampant, and the “enemies list” keeps growing.

Fan Outrage and the Tush Push Legacy

Eagles fans, known for their passion (and occasional rowdiness), have taken to X and sports forums to vent. “The Tush Push is OUR play—hands off!” one user posted, garnering thousands of likes. Another wrote, “If you can’t stop it, get better. Don’t cry to the refs.” The sentiment reflects a broader frustration: Why should a team be penalized for innovation and execution?

Analysts are split. Some, like NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger, praise the Eagles for turning a basic rugby-style concept into a game-changer. Others argue it’s a loophole in the rules that needs closing. Regardless, the Tush Push has cemented its place in Eagles lore, joining the ranks of iconic Philly moments like the “Philly Special” from Super Bowl LII.

Who’s Next to Feel the Heat?

With the ban defeated for now, the spotlight shifts to the 2025 season. Which teams will face the Eagles—and their Tush Push—next? The schedule isn’t finalized, but early projections suggest rematches with the Packers, Cowboys, and Giants. If these “enemies” couldn’t kill the play in the boardroom, they’ll have to stop it on the field. Good luck with that.

Beyond the immediate rivals, playoff hopefuls like the Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals could also feel the heat if they meet Philly in the postseason. The Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, have their own tricks, but their defense struggled against similar power plays in past encounters. A Super Bowl rematch could turn the Tush Push into the ultimate X-factor.

The Bigger Picture: Innovation vs. Tradition

The Tush Push saga isn’t just about one play—it’s a clash between innovation and tradition in the NFL. The league has a history of adapting rules to curb dominant strategies, from the “Bounty Bowl” crackdowns to the recent kickoff overhaul. Will the Tush Push eventually meet the same fate? For now, the Eagles have won the battle, but the war rages on.

As the 2025 season looms, one thing is clear: Philadelphia’s enemies list isn’t shrinking anytime soon. Whether it’s the Packers, Cowboys, or an unexpected foe, someone’s going to feel the heat when Jalen Hurts lines up behind center. The Tush Push lives—and so does the outrage.