NFL Owners Prepare Vote on Controversial 'Tush Push' Play Ban

The NFL is set to revisit a controversial vote on banning the "tush push," a goal-line play prominently used by the Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills, where multiple players push the ball carrier forward in short-yardage situations. The play has been highly effective, with an 87% success rate in converting touchdowns or first downs, but it has drawn criticism, particularly from defenders like Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu, who called it a "cheapo play" akin to a rugby scrum and supports its ban. The Green Bay Packers proposed the rule change citing player safety and pace of play, though there is no conclusive data linking the play to increased injury risk. Luvu’s frustrations were highlighted by his multiple penalties during the NFC Championship Game for premature attempts to stop the push, underscoring defensive challenges against it. The NFL owners previously split 16-16 on the issue, and a two-thirds majority is required to pass the ban, with the vote expected during the upcoming meetings in Minneapolis. Eagles officials are actively lobbying to keep the play legal, emphasizing its strategic importance and success, while opponents maintain it provides an unfair advantage and raises safety concerns.