The NFL's War On Butts: The 'Tush Push' Lives On

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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The Mechanics of the 'Tush Push': A Deep Dive

The “tush push,” also sometimes referred to (less politely) as a "butt push," involves an offensive lineman using their backside to push a defensive lineman off balance. This often occurs during running plays, creating a gap for the ball carrier. The technique requires precise timing and a powerful, controlled shove, often targeting the defender's lower back or hips.

• Precise Execution: A successful “tush push” necessitates a quick, decisive movement. The offensive lineman must use their legs and core strength to generate momentum, delivering the push with their buttocks while maintaining balance and body control.
• Variations: Offensive linemen may employ variations of the “tush push,” including a subtle nudge to disrupt a defender's stance or a more forceful push to create significant separation. Some employ a combination of pushing with their hands and buttocks.
• Legal vs. Illegal: The key distinction lies in the legality. While a clean “tush push” – a simple, isolated push with the backside – is generally permissible, the maneuver quickly crosses into illegal territory if combined with other infractions. Simultaneous chopping, holding, or other illegal blocking techniques can result in penalties. This gray area often leads to inconsistencies in officiating.

The NFL's Attempts to Eradicate the 'Tush Push'

The NFL hasn't remained idle in the face of the “tush push.” Several rule changes and interpretations have been implemented over the years, aimed at curbing its use:

• Rule Changes: The league has continuously refined its blocking rules, attempting to clarify the difference between legal and illegal actions. These attempts often focus on preventing the combination of “tush pushing” with other illegal maneuvers, such as chop blocks.
• Refereeing Challenges: Identifying an illegal “tush push” in real-time is exceptionally difficult. The speed and chaos of NFL games make it hard for referees to ascertain the precise nature of each contact, and determine if it involves an illegal chop block, hold or other foul.
• Enforcement Inconsistencies: Referees may have varying interpretations of the rule, leading to inconsistencies in penalty calls across different games and even within the same game. This lack of consistent enforcement contributes to the ongoing debate surrounding the “tush push.”

The Effectiveness and Controversy of the 'Tush Push'

The “tush push,” despite its controversial nature, provides a noticeable competitive advantage for offensive lines:

• Competitive Advantage: By effectively displacing defensive linemen, the “tush push” helps create running lanes and provides additional protection for the quarterback, particularly when used in conjunction with other blocking techniques. This can lead to increased rushing yards and improved passing plays.
• Injury Risk: While the “tush push” itself might not seem inherently dangerous, the potential for injury increases when combined with other illegal blocking techniques. Improper execution can lead to injuries for both offensive and defensive players.
• Player Perspectives: Opinions vary widely among players and coaches. While some view the “tush push” as a legitimate, albeit aggressive, tactic, others criticize it as a dangerous and potentially dirty play, emphasizing the potential for injury.

The Future of the 'Tush Push' in the NFL

The debate over the “tush push” is likely to continue. But what role will technology and rulebook refinements play in shaping its future?

• Technological Advancements: Improved replay review and more sophisticated officiating tools could potentially assist in clarifying questionable plays. Instant replay could provide a better view of the contact, allowing for more accurate penalty calls.
• Rulebook Refinements: More specific language in the rulebook, possibly with illustrative diagrams, could provide greater clarity to referees and players regarding what constitutes a legal versus an illegal “tush push.”
• Predicting Future Trends: It’s unlikely that the "tush push," in some form, will completely disappear. Its effectiveness, despite the risks, will likely ensure it remains a tactic used by offensive linemen, while the NFL will continue to refine rules to minimize injury risk and enforce fair play.

Conclusion

The NFL's ongoing battle against the “tush push” highlights the constant tension between offensive innovation and the league’s commitment to player safety and fair play. While rule changes aim to curb this controversial technique, its effectiveness and the challenges in consistent enforcement suggest that the "tush push," or similar butt-pushing techniques, will likely remain a feature of the NFL for some time. What changes do you think the NFL should implement to address the “tush push” and ensure fair play? Share your thoughts in the comments below!