The Philadelphia Eagles’ “Tush Push” is back in the spotlight, and it’s not just because of their gritty 20-17 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2. The play, a quarterback sneak powered by a relentless offensive line, has once again ignited debates across the NFL. Critics call it a gimmick, a cheap trick, even accusing the Eagles of bending the rules with pre-snap penalties. But for Jordan Mailata, the team’s 6-foot-8, 365-pound Australian lineman, the criticism isn’t just misguided—it’s personal.
Speaking on Sports Radio WIP on Tuesday, ahead of a high-stakes rematch against the Rams in the NFC Divisional round, Mailata didn’t hold back. With his trademark golden voice and fiery passion, the gentle giant unleashed a verbal smackdown on those dismissing the Tush Push as the sole reason for Philly’s success.
“I understand the outrage [over the Tush Push],” Mailata said, his tone laced with frustration. “What I don’t understand is them using it as an excuse for why we won the game. It’s incredibly disrespectful to our defense and our special teams who balled out.”
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The Eagles’ lineman wasn’t done. He pointed to the heart and hustle of his teammates, who fought tooth and nail to secure the win. “My brothers on defense and special teams had our backs when we weren’t moving the ball or doing anything,” he said. “To base our win on a short-yardage play—a football play—and ignore how our defense and special teams played? That pisses me off.”
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Mailata’s words carried the weight of a man who pours everything into the game, only to see his team’s dominance reduced to a single play. The Tush Push, a perfectly legal and brilliantly executed strategy, has become a lightning rod for critics who can’t stomach Philly’s short-yardage supremacy. But Mailata sees through the noise. “I just think it’s rubbish. Absolute rubbish, man,” he said, his blood boiling. “It makes me angry just thinking about it.”
For Eagles fans, Mailata’s rant is a rallying cry. The Tush Push isn’t cheating—it’s a masterclass in brute strength, precise execution, and outsmarting opponents. At 2-0, the Eagles are sending a clear message to the NFL: love it or hate it, the Tush Push is here to stay. And if you can’t stop it, you’re getting shoved out of the way.