Green Bay Packers Lead the Charge to Ban the Tush Push

Packers Take a Stand Against the Controversial Play
The Green Bay Packers have officially taken action against one of the most controversial plays in the NFL—the “tush push.” On Wednesday, the NFL released a list of proposed rule changes for the 2025 season, and among them was Green Bay’s attempt to ban the Philadelphia Eagles’ signature play. This move has sparked intense debate across the league, as teams struggle to contain the dominance of Jalen Hurts and the Eagles’ offensive strategy.

What the Rule Proposal Says
The Packers’ proposal aims to outlaw any offensive player from pushing a teammate who is directly behind the snapper and receives the ball immediately at the snap. This effectively targets the Eagles’ tush push, which has become nearly unstoppable in short-yardage situations. The play, which relies on a powerful offensive line and quarterback strength, has given Philadelphia a significant advantage on crucial downs, particularly in goal-line and fourth-down scenarios.

The Packers’ History with the Eagles and the Tush Push
Green Bay’s frustration with the play is understandable. Their 2024 season both began and ended with losses to the Philadelphia Eagles. The two teams opened the season in Brazil, where the Eagles secured a 34–29 victory. Later, in the NFC wild-card round, Philadelphia eliminated Green Bay with a decisive 22–10 win.

Although Jalen Hurts did not score a rushing touchdown in either of those matchups, the Eagles’ use of the tush push played a key role in controlling the game. The play has been widely criticized by some teams and coaches for giving an unfair advantage, as it is extremely difficult to stop when executed properly.

Why the Tush Push is So Controversial
The Eagles have perfected the tush push, turning what used to be a standard quarterback sneak into a nearly guaranteed gain. By using extra blockers to push Hurts forward, they have made the play nearly unstoppable, leading to frustration among defensive coordinators across the league. Critics argue that it goes against the spirit of the game by turning football into more of a rugby-style scrum rather than a traditional offensive play.

On the other hand, supporters of the play claim that it is simply good strategy. The Eagles have built their offensive identity around a dominant offensive line and Hurts’ physicality. If defenses cannot stop the play, some argue, then it should remain legal.

Will the Rule Change Pass?
The Packers’ proposal will now be debated by league officials and team owners. For the rule to be implemented, it must receive approval from at least 24 of the 32 NFL teams. While some teams may support the change to create a more balanced playing field, others may argue that banning a single team’s successful play sets a dangerous precedent.

As discussions heat up, one thing is clear—the Packers are determined to put an end to the tush push. Whether the NFL agrees remains to be seen, but this proposal could mark the beginning of significant changes to how short-yardage plays are executed in the league.