The New York Giants’ failed QB push play in the first quarter of the Monday Night Football clash against the Seattle Seahawks on Monday night didn’t only contribute to a 24-3 loss. It also cost them center John Michael Schmitz and tight end Daniel Bellinger.
Facing a 4th & 1 on the Seahawks’ 27-yard line, the Giants opted to go for it and attempt a QB push. Known also as “tush push,” the play is similar to a QB sneak and sees the quarterback trying to get a short yardage while being pushed by the offensive linemen.
The QB push was popularized by the Philadelphia Eagles, who brought its execution to perfection. However, the Giants didn’t impress anyone with their attempt.
Schmitz and Bellinger exited the game after the play and didn’t return. Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, the Giants’ coach Brian Daboll confirmed that the duo got hurt while executing the play.
Despite failing with the QB push, Daboll doesn’t regret making the call.
“Just felt that was the right thing to do,” Daboll said. “Again, those are stuff we talk about throughout the week. Talked about it during the drive where we were at. Felt comfortable with the decision. Felt comfortable with the play.”
After a surprising run to the playoffs last season, the New York Giants have only one win in their first four games in 2023. They could easily be 1-4 after next week, considering they are the underdogs against the high-scoring Miami Dolphins.
