NFL Referees Tighten Penalties on Tush Push Plays

This year, the NFL has been urging referees to be more strict with penalties regarding attempts at the tush push. On Thursday night, that enforcement was evident.

During a game against the Bengals, the Steelers experienced a false start in the second quarter while trying a play akin to the tush push, with tight end Darnell Washington positioned under center.

Right before the snap, the right side of the offensive line jumped, leading to a penalty.

This penalty meant that the Steelers, who were aiming for a 4-1 lead, were forced to settle for a field goal instead.

By halftime, the Steelers were ahead 17-10.

The tush push has become a contentious topic, and earlier this year, the league attempted to ban it, but a vote by NFL owners did not pass. The measure needed 24 votes, yet it only garnered 22; teams like the Jets, Ravens, Patriots, and Lions opposed the ban.

The league has also instructed officials to closely monitor tush push scenarios during training videos this season. Ramon George, the NFL’s vice president of training and development, emphasized the importance of clear officiating in such situations, acknowledging the challenges involved. “Before the snap, it looks like the right guard is moving. There’s movement from the defensive end. This is a very difficult play to referee. I understand,” he noted.

The Packers have actively pushed against the tush push this year, with standout edge rusher Micah Parsons expressing his distaste for the play on social media. Reflecting on the Eagles’ use of it, he said, “If you ask the Eagles offensive line, they’ll say that’s the best thing we’re doing offensively right now. It’s the most consistent thing they’ve got, but it might stick with me at some point. I hate that play. … If they go out early, there’s no stopping them.”