Earlier this offseason, the quarterback sneak became quite the controversy. And in the midst of that controversy were the Philadelphia Eagles who were 90% successful when using the “tush push” in 2022.
But, the good news for Eagles’ fans is that the move is here to stay for the 2023 season.
QUARTERBACK SNEAK WILL NOT BE CHALLENGED
Becoming popular on third-and-fourth-down short yardage situations, the Philadelphia Eagles have excelled when executing the quarterback sneak. With the No. 1 offensive line in the league in front of quarterback Jalen Hurts, the remainder to the offense lines up behind him and pushes him over the line.
In 2022, the Eagles were able to convert on 37 out of 41 sneak attempts. However, teams around the NFL began complaining, requesting it be banned moving forward. Many compared it to a rugby scuff, and Denver Broncos’ head coach Sean Payton threatened to use it on every play next season if it wasn’t banned.
Last month, Eagles’ general manager Howie Roseman stated, “All I know is everything we’re doing is legal and it works, and just because people do something that’s really good, doesn’t mean it should be outlawed.”
Though discussions were supposed to be had, the topic remained absent from the “2023 Playing Rule, Bylaw, and Resolution Proposals”. It will therefore not be discussed at the 2023 NFL Owners Meetings.
The Eagles weren’t the only team to use it. Throughout last season, it was recorded 308 times — an NFL record. It’s likely this number will now increase next season.
