As the NFL gears up for another whirlwind season, the conversation surrounding the infamous “tush-push” play takes center stage, especially in light of the recent rule changes. Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen and Arizona Cardinals coach Jonathan Gannon, both of whom helped shape the Philadelphia Eagles’ success with this controversial play during their Super Bowl run, have ironically voted to ban it. It’s a twist that adds layers of intrigue to the coaching landscape.
A total of 22 teams, including the Colts and Cardinals, cast their votes in favor of prohibiting any pushing of the runner. This decision underscores the evolving nature of the game and the ongoing dialogue about player safety and fair play. It’s fascinating to see how quickly the tables can turn in the NFL; just a short time ago, Steichen and Gannon were part of a formidable Eagles’ coaching staff that thrived on the strategy of utilizing the tush-push to great effect.
With Steichen and Gannon having transitioned to their respective head coaching roles after leaving Philly, you can’t help but wonder how much of their past success is tied to that very play. Back in March, Eagles coach Nick Sirianni jokingly called out his former colleagues, asserting their owe their current positions partly to the effectiveness of that play. “Gannon, Steichen, and Moore better vote for it,” Sirianni chuckled, indicating that their votes were crucial and that he expected them to stand by the very strategy that helped elevate them.
Interestingly, the tables weren’t completely turned on these coaches. It’s essential to note that Steichen and Gannon didn’t ultimately have the final say in how their teams would vote on this contentious issue. It’s now on their shoulders to articulate to Sirianni why their influence wasn’t strong enough to sway the decisions of their respective franchises.
On another note, as the NFL adapts, the Eagles may see an influx of former coordinators stepping into head coaching roles in the coming years, especially if they continue their ascent toward another Super Bowl run. The possibilities are endless, given the talent in their current coaching roster, including offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
As the league moves forward, the debate over the tush-push will surely continue to evolve. The decision from coaches who rose to prominence through its use paints a compelling picture of how the game is constantly in flux—adapting to not just the rules, but the very strategies that define the NFL landscape. Rest assured, this isn’t the last we’ll hear about the impact of the tush-push in the professional football narrative.
