In Week 12, the Los Angeles Rams have to take on one of the most unstoppable plays in all of football: the Tush Push.
In addition to having the NFL’s top rushing attack, second-best passing defence, and outstanding players throughout their roster, the Philadelphia Eagles also have a short-yardage play that isn’t quite as effective as it once was but is still a potent weapon on fourth downs and in the end zone.
How can the Rams defence, which has occasionally had trouble stopping the run in 2024, prepare to stop a play that appears to be effective more than three-quarters of the time? In response to that inquiry, Sean McVay discussed his knowledge of the play, particularly Jeff Stoutland’s mastery of it.
“Where should I begin, in your opinion? The impetus, the methods, and the basics are, in my opinion, the most important factors. McVay told reporters, “Everyone tries to run it, but they do it at a slightly different clip.”
You hear people say that Jeff Stoutland, the offensive line coach and run game coordinator for the Eagles, is one of the best coaches in the league. Leverage angles are understood, get off, a rapport has been built, and they have been doing this for a while. It’s clear that [Eagles quarterback] Jalen [Hurts] has a knack for riding that wave, if you will. There are numerous difficulties.
The Tush Push would ordinarily end there, but for whatever reason, it has gained so much popularity that it is now a proper word. Thankfully, McVay was open to answering additional questions about the subject and went into a bit more into about defending the play.