When the NFL confirmed that the controversial “Tush Push” would remain legal for the 2025 season, Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni wasn’t exactly celebrating. Instead, he had a message — and a target.
According to multiple league insiders, the Pittsburgh Steelers — Pennsylvania’s other NFL franchise — were among the teams that voted in favor of banning the Tush Push, a play that has become synonymous with the Eagles’ offensive identity.
“We didn’t expect a team from the same state, part of the same football culture, to vote like that,” Sirianni told reporters.
“Family shouldn’t act like that.”
The Play That Shook the League
The “Tush Push” — or “Brotherly Shove” — involves a quarterback sneak aided by a push from behind, executed with ruthless efficiency by the Eagles. With Jalen Hurts, Jason Kelce, and one of the NFL’s strongest O-lines, the team has converted short-yardage situations at an elite rate.
Opponents have struggled to replicate the play’s success, and some have claimed it’s “unfair” or “unsafe.” However, league data shows no increased injury risk, undermining the safety argument.
“If other teams can’t run it, that’s not our fault,” retired center Jason Kelce said previously.
Nick Doesn’t Hold Back
Sirianni, never shy with his words, didn’t name Pittsburgh outright. But when asked about teams “close to home” voting against the Tush Push, he made his stance clear.
“You can disagree with family. But when you vote against something we built just because it works — you’ve chosen a side.”
This subtle jab has ignited online debate between Steelers and Eagles fans, reviving an old rivalry between East and West Pennsylvania.
Brotherly War Heats Up
Though the Eagles and Steelers don’t face off annually, their matchups are always symbolic: gritty blue-collar cities representing different ends of the Keystone State.
Sirianni’s comments, if confirmed, could make the next meeting a must-watch — not just for the football, but for the philosophy behind it.
