The Philadelphia Eagles Unveil a New Trick Play: The Fake “Tush Push”
The Philadelphia Eagles introduced a surprising element during their recent matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on December 8, 2025, at SoFi Stadium. This new twist, dubbed the fake “tush push,” left fans and commentators buzzing.
A Game-Changing Moment
In a tense fourth quarter, with the Eagles trailing 13-9, Jalen Hurts executed the play on a critical third-and-1 attempt just shy of midfield. Instead of utilizing the traditional tush push—a play the Eagles have perfected—Hurts pulled off a clever feint. He pitched the ball to running back Saquon Barkley, who then burst through the defense for an electrifying 52-yard touchdown run. Following the extra point, the Eagles regained the lead at 16-13.
- Key Play: Fake tush push.
- Outcome: 52-yard touchdown by Saquon Barkley.
The Significance of the Touchdown
This touchdown marked Barkley’s longest run of the night, showcasing his ability to turn a deceptive play into a significant gain for the Eagles. After the touchdown, Barkley celebrated by gifting the ball to an enthusiastic Eagles fan, making the moment even more memorable amidst the turnover-filled contest that ended with the Eagles losing 22-19 in overtime.
Unique Broadcast Experience
Adding to the excitement of the game, it was part of the “Monsters Funday Football” broadcast on ESPN 2, featuring beloved characters from Disney’s Monsters, Inc. In this delightful twist, the cartoon broadcast humorously depicted Mike Wazowski standing in for Barkley as he took off for the end zone.
- Broadcast Highlight: Mike Wazowski as Saquon Barkley.
- Platform: ESPN 2 and other Disney networks.
The Evolution of the Tush Push
The tush push has become a cornerstone of the Eagles’ offensive strategy, generating both admiration and controversy. Many teams have sought to challenge its legality, with discussions in the NFL regarding a potential ban. However, attempts to outlaw the play have not gained sufficient traction in recent votes.
Controversy and Competition
Here are some key points about the play:
- Who Uses It? The Eagles primarily, but others around the league have also attempted variations.
- Controversial Nature: A source of division among teams and fans, with calls for its ban.
- Historical Usage: This was not the first time a team attempted a fake tush push. In a previous game on November 16, the Ravens successfully executed a similar play when Mark Andrews scored after a tush push formation.
Conclusion
The Eagles’ use of the fake tush push is a bold statement that encapsulates their innovative approach to the game. As they continue to develop unique plays, it remains to be seen how opposing teams will adapt. For fans and critics alike, this exciting play has undoubtedly added a captivating layer to an already thrilling NFL season.
For more updates on the Eagles and their plays, visit ESPN or NFL. Keep an eye on the evolving strategies of teams across the league as they navigate the challenges of the 2025 season.
