Ravens’ Fake Tush Push Stuns Browns in Gritty AFC North Victory

The Baltimore Ravens secured a critical 23-16 win over the Cleveland Browns. A brilliantly executed fake “tush push” play was the game-winning touchdown. The victory marks the Ravens’ fourth consecutive win.

The play occurred late in the fourth quarter on a crucial fourth-down. It showcased the team’s creativity and resilience under pressure.

Anatomy of a Game-Winning Trick Play

The Ravens faced fourth-and-one from the Cleveland 35-yard line. The game was tied 16-16. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken dialed up a play called “Hurricane.”

Tight end Mark Andrews lined up at quarterback. The entire defense expected a standard quarterback sneak. Andrews instead faked the push and sprinted 35 yards for the score.

According to The Athletic, the play was practiced just days before the game. It was Andrews’ first career rushing touchdown. His blockers sealed the edge perfectly to spring him loose.

Defense Secures the Hard-Fought Win

While the trick play provided the points, the defense sealed the victory. Baltimore’s unit allowed only 187 total yards to the Browns. They completely shut out Cleveland in the second half.

Safety Kyle Hamilton was a force all over the field. He recorded nine tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble. The defense made critical stops on Cleveland’s final drive to preserve the lead.

The Ravens overcame three turnovers to win. This demonstrated a level of grit that has defined their recent winning streak.

The Rise of the Tush Push and its Evolution

The “tush push” has become a common short-yardage play across the NFL. Teams like the Philadelphia Eagles have popularized its use. It involves players pushing the quarterback forward from behind.

The Ravens’ fake version adds a new layer of strategic deception. It forces defenses to hesitate on every short-yardage situation. This innovation keeps opposing coordinators awake at night.

The league recently voted to keep the play legal for the 2025 season. Creative adaptations, like Baltimore’s, show how the game continues to evolve.

The Ravens’ fake tush push was more than just a clever play; it was a statement of resilience that has completely revitalized their season trajectory and playoff hopes.

Thought you’d like to know

What is a “tush push” in football?

It is a short-yardage play where the quarterback is pushed forward by teammates from behind. The goal is to gain a single yard for a first down or touchdown.

Who scored on the Ravens’ fake tush push?

Tight end Mark Andrews scored the touchdown. It was his first career rushing touchdown in the NFL.

How has the Ravens’ season turned around?

The team has won four straight games after a difficult 1-5 start. Their defense has been dominant during this winning streak.

Why was the play so significant?

It broke a tie late in the fourth quarter against a division rival. The win keeps Baltimore firmly in the AFC playoff picture.

Will the tush push be banned?

The NFL voted to keep the play legal for the 2025 season. There are no current plans to ban it, despite some controversy.