The "Tush Push?" It's been moving the Eagles.

Last edited Fri Dec 1, 2023, 08:27 PM - Edit history (1)

San Francisco Chronicle / 12-1-2023

What was notable about the Tush Push answers this week in the 49ers’ locker room before their meeting against the Eagles on Sunday? The defensive linemen — the guys who will be on the front line of the slow-motion car crashes — weren’t in a joking mood when it came to answering questions about the almost-automatic quarterback sneak that has become the Eagles’ signature play.

For the uninitiated: The play involves 223-pound QB Jalen Hurts, who can squat 600 pounds, driving behind one of the NFL’s best offensive lines while multiple teammates shove him from behind.

The 49ers don’t run the Tush Push, but (49ers) center Jake Brendel understands why his Eagles counterpart, first-team All-Pro Jason Kelce, has termed it “grueling.”

Despite the discomfort, the end results have usually been fun for the Eagles, who have converted 25 of 27 (92.6%) Tush Push sneaks in 2023 and 62 of 68 (91.2%) since last season. In 2023, Hurts has eight of his 11 rushing touchdowns on the play.

Link (paywall): https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/49ers/article/49ers-don-t-sound-confident-thwarting-eagles-18524718.php

QUOTE (from the link): “It’s probably one of the most unstoppable plays in football right now,” (San Francisco 49ers cornerback Charvarius) Ward said.

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How are the Eagles working it? According to interviews in the link, the Eagles’ front five is the key. The linemen have a unique skill — they can drive the pile forward while getting low. Says 49ers Linebacker Fred Warner, "The way they kind of torpedo and then are able to move their feet through contact, even though they are at a weird angle, I’ve never seen any other O-line attack it that way.” It's said to be unappreciated (or unexpected) on a play that looks like it’s all about brute strength.

Something to look for this Sunday when San Francisco plays Philadelphia.