Jalen Hurts, Eagles could bring about new NFL rule change
The NFL Competition Committee is looking to create a rule that would eliminate a play the Philadelphia Eagles used effectively this past season.
The Philadelphia Eagles fell short in their quest to win Super Bowl 57, as they lost 38-35 to the Kansas City Chiefs. Even in the loss, the NFL world saw a superstar emerge in quarterback Jalen Hurts and that the Eagles stayed with the Chiefs throughout the game. Even with 20 players set to become free agents, the chances of Philadelphia making it back to the big game next year remain high.
However, one of their signature plays may no longer be allowed next season.
According to The 33rd Team’s Dean Blandino, the NFL Competition Committee is considering taking a look at the Eagles’ “Tush Push” play, in which two or three players stand behind Hurts and push him forward on quarterback sneaks.
“I think the league is going to look at this, and I’d be shocked if they don’t make a change,’’ said Blandino.
NFL Competition Committee to take a look at Eagles’ ‘Tush Push’ play
This rule has been in effect in the NFL since 2005, per The 33rd Team, but the Eagles have used it a lot throughout this season. The 33rd Team also points out that on Hurts’ 10 first-down runs in Super Bowl 57, six of them were on the “Tush Push” quarterback sneaks. Also, Hurts converted 36-of-40 sneaks this season.
Blandino also said that new Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton said that he will use this play every chance he gets next season if the league doesn’t outlaw it.
On the year, Hurts ran for 760 yards and 13 touchdowns on 165 carries in 15 regular-season games. In Philadelphia’s three playoff games, Hurts ran for 143 yards and five touchdowns on 35 carries.
The Competition Committee will meet at the annual league meetings in Phoenix, Ariz. from March 26-29. From there, we will see if the “Tush Push” play will be eliminated.