Under head coach Matt LaFleur, the Green Bay Packers have unashamedly adopted the controversial “tush push” play. This dynamic change has turned out to be one of their most dangerous offensive weapons. So far in 2023, the team has run the play five times with quarterback Jordan Love. What’s even more impressive is that they were actually successful on those attempts, converting four of them. That’s a big change from how they’ve operated in the past. This marked the first time the Packers used the tush push in a season and a half of staying away from the tactic.
As they prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles at Lambeau Field on Monday night, the discussion surrounding the tush push has resurfaced. The Eagles, known for their effective use of this play, defeated the Packers twice last season, including a loss in the regular-season opener and another in the NFC wild-card playoff round. LaFleur even admitted that it was an eyesore in the Eagles’ execution of the play.
“It is what it is. The NFL made a decision, and we have to find a way to try to stop the play, and it’s a tough play to stop,” – Matt LaFleur.
The NFL’s recent decision to legalize the tush push has ignited a firestorm of controversy. Team owners, coaches, general managers have all been talking about it all offseason. That proposal to ban the play received a remarkable amount of media coverage. As it turned out, it wasn’t enough – passing only 22 to 4 on the official May vote.
On stopping the tush push LaFleur was adamant this needs to be the key to short-yardage situations, calling it an issue of discipline and awareness on defense.
“You can’t allow them in those short-yardage situations because you know exactly what they’re going to do,” – Matt LaFleur.
Despite its success rate—82.1% last season, 83.3% in 2023, and 92.6% in 2022—the Packers seem to have a different perspective on its use. LaFleur was careful to indicate that he isn’t changing his tune on the play after the unsuccessful proposal to ban it.
“I’m not going to get into it,” – Matt LaFleur.
The Packers had considerable success when they used the tush push in the past. It’s further evidence of their adaptability and willingness to embrace successful strategies employed by other teams. Now, they’re preparing to face off against their historical arch-rival. It will be interesting to see how they employ this tactic going forward!
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