Matthew Stafford Supports Proposal to Challenge Tush Push After Rams’ Loss to Eagles

In the first half, he completed timely throws and spread the ball effectively, allowing the Rams to control tempo. But in the second half, Philadelphia’s defense tightened, limiting Los Angeles to field-goal tries and forcing missed opportunities late.

Stafford ended the night completing 19 of 33 passes for 196 yards with two touchdowns and an interception, but the team collapsed in the final moments, failing to add to the scoreboard in the fourth quarter.

After the game, Stafford appeared on the Let’s Go! podcast and addressed the growing debate around the Eagles’ signature short-yardage play—the tush push.

“It’s a tough play to defend. I can’t imagine being on the defensive side of the ball,” Stafford said. “It’s a play that has really been successful for them. Something that teams have a difficult time defending. I’m not sure what the answer is.”

When host Jim Gray suggested challenging the league if it refuses to ban tush push, Stafford responded:

“Yeah, I mean that's a great idea. I think that would be an amazing thing. I haven't been down there in a four point to see the early moves, but I imagine that's a demoralizing feeling when you're a D-tackle waiting for the ball to be snapped and you're already getting engaged.”

Critics have long argued that officials miss false starts on the push and that the play creates an imbalance.

Earlier this year, a proposal to outlaw it did not receive enough votes, keeping the play legal for at least the 2025 season despite all the controversy.

The Eagles have leaned on the play since 2022, converting 96.6% of attempts in fourth-and-1 situations entering Sunday’s game (via ESPN). It was a key factor in their 2024 Super Bowl run and has already been used multiple times this season, including for a touchdown against the Rams.

The Rams head to Indianapolis to face the undefeated Colts, searching for a rebound performance after their late collapse in Philadelphia. Stafford’s ability to rediscover his consistency and avoid costly misfires will be critical if Los Angeles hopes to rebound from the disappointing loss.

The Eagles, meanwhile, travel to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 4 as they aim to extend their perfect start to the season. Philadelphia will again rely on their physical run game, passing balance, and sturdy defensive unit to get the job done.