The Philadelphia Eagles have had their way offensively in their Week 16 matchup with the Washington Commanders. However, that success has not come without early blunders involving the NFL’s most talked-about play, as pointed out by a former Eagles linebacker.
Ex-Eagles LB Emmanuel Acho Criticizes Philadelphia’s Decision vs. Commanders
On the Eagles’ first drive of the game, trailing 3-0, Jalen Hurts and company moved the ball to the goal line and lined up in the famed Tush Push formation. In an attempt to draw the Commanders offsides, or at the very least catch the defense off guard, the Eagles used a hard count.
Instead, the offensive line jumped, resulting in a five-yard false start penalty. The costly mistake caught the attention of Emmanuel Acho, who quickly took to X to voice his frustration.
“Hard counting on the Tush Push at the goal line makes NO SENSE for the Eagles,” Acho said.
Hard counting on the Tush Push at the goal line makes NO SENSE for the @Eagles. If the defense jumps, you gain half a yard, if you jump, you lose 5 yards.
— Emmanuel Acho (@EmmanuelAcho) December 20, 2025
Acho went on to explain why the decision puzzled him, saying, “If the defense jumps, you gain half a yard, if you jump, you lose 5 yards.” His confusion reflects what many fans have felt throughout the season: frustration caused by self-inflicted errors.
Whether or not the hard count was the right idea, committing a false start just inches from the end zone is not something a Super Bowl-contending team can afford. The costly mistake was also not the last of its kind in the game.
Later, reporter Greg Auman noted a second instance in which the Eagles committed another false start penalty on the goal line.
Twice tonight, the Eagles have tried to Tush Push from the 1-yard line and a false start on a lineman has backed them up to the 6 …
— Greg Auman (@gregauman) December 20, 2025
“Twice tonight, the Eagles have tried to Tush Push from the 1-yard line and a false start on a lineman has backed them up to the 6,” Auman said on X.
Officials have made it clear they are increasing scrutiny of the Tush Push. With offseason discussions about banning the play expected to intensify, questions are growing about how much longer it will remain a viable option.
Acho’s frustration is understandable, as false start penalties are costly for any team, especially one preparing to defend its title in the postseason. Meanwhile, fans of the league’s other 31 teams may be celebrating, as the Tush Push continues to be flagged at a historic rate, signaling its end could be near.
