If the NFL’s “Tush Push” disappears, it won’t be for safety reasons.
The so-called Tush Push is a quarterback sneak technique perfected by the Philadelphia Eagles in which players line up behind the quarterback to help him get over the line to gain an advantage. Some fans, pundits and team owners considered it an ugly play, and the league initially pushed to ban it, citing safety concerns.
advertise
But so far, all efforts to ban it have been unsuccessful. Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton has defended the tactic in the past, and he defended it again at the NFL combine.
“I don’t think this push is going to happen quietly — I think if this goes away, it’s not going to be as much of a health and safety issue,” Payton said. “We talked about it for two hours last year and we just implemented a thousand more kick returns. What kind of game do you think is more of a health risk? A thousand more kick returns. So I think if we choose to move forward, it won’t be because of health and safety. It’s just saying, ‘We don’t like it.’ And that’s okay.”
Payton is now back on the NFL competition committee, so he’s involved in key decisions. He was asked at the combine what he likes about being a committee member.
“I love the pain,” Payton quipped. “I love our league. I love talking about things like this. Like I mentioned, we actually spent two hours talking about quarterback sneak health and safety. Likewise, just half an hour ago we passed a rule allowing for a thousand more kicks [returns]. So every once in a while, your BS meter goes up. I am passionate about the sport and involved in it. “
advertise
So, it doesn’t look like “Tush Push” is going away anytime soon, especially if Payton has a say in it.
social: Follow Broncos Wire on Facebook and Twitter/X! did you know: These 25 celebrities are Broncos fans.
This article originally appeared on Broncos Wired: NFL: Broncos coach Sean Payton gives his thoughts on ‘Tush Push’
