Patriots reportedly helped save the ‘tush push’ from proposed ban
The Patriots voted in favor of keeping the play around, and there weren't enough votes to make the ban happen.
Ten NFL teams voted against banning the tush push on Wednesday, and it was enough to stave off the proposed ban that the play was facing.
The Patriots were one of those ten teams, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The Jets, Ravens, and Lions also sided with the Eagles’ push to keep the play alive, Schefter said.
The tush push is a variation of the quarterback sneak, during which players who line up behind the quarterback help push him forward for added momentum. The play can be useful in short-yardage situations, especially near the goal line.
But, it also has its share of detractors. Twenty-two teams voted in favor of banning the play, but the league needed at least 24 votes (75 percent of the league) to make the ban a reality.
The Packers submitted a proposal for the play to be banned. According to NFL Media, concerns about player safety and pace of play cited as reasons for the proposal.
Some have argued that it’s a dangerous play, but there is no substantial data to support that, according to the NFL.com’s Grant Gordon.
The Eagles popularized the play and the majority of teams are against it remaining legal.
But, it’s here to stay for now, thanks in part to the Patriots and other teams who voted against the ban.
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