Imagine a quarterback shattering the all-time rushing touchdown record, a feat traditionally reserved for legendary running backs. Sounds impossible, right? But that's exactly what Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen are threatening to do. This Sunday's showdown between the Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills isn't just a game; it's a glimpse into a potential future where the lines between quarterback and running back blur entirely. ESPN's Tim McManus and Alaina Getzenberg delve into this fascinating possibility, exploring the historic achievements and future prospects of these two dual-threat phenoms.
The Eagles' locker room has a running joke about scoring touchdowns near the goal line. As tight end Dallas Goedert quips, 'If you're at the 1-yard line, you might as well get in, because otherwise, you know how we're going in.' That 'how' is Jalen Hurts, a powerhouse who combines a road-grading offensive line, lower-body strength, and the infamous 'tush push' to bulldoze his way into the end zone. This Sunday, Hurts faces off against Josh Allen, another quarterback redefining the position with his legs. Allen already holds the NFL record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback (77), while Hurts, drafted two years later, sits third with 63. Their achievements are historic, but their potential is truly mind-boggling.
Here's where it gets even more intriguing: Based on their current pace, both quarterbacks are on track to surpass Emmitt Smith's legendary 164 career rushing touchdowns, potentially as early as the 2034 season. To put this in perspective, the top 20 career rushing touchdown leaders are all running backs, including icons like LaDainian Tomlinson, Walter Payton, and Barry Sanders. Only Derrick Henry, with 116 touchdowns, represents the active players on this list. Could two quarterbacks really join this elite company?
Time is on their side, as modern quarterbacks are extending their careers well into their 30s. However, challenges abound. The annual attempts to ban the 'tush push' could hinder their progress, and the physical toll of rushing the ball is undeniable. Yet, this weekend, we'll witness two of the greatest dual-threat quarterbacks in history sharing the field, leaving defenders scrambling and fans in awe.
What makes them so dominant on the ground? For Allen, it's a combination of his imposing size (6'5", 237 lbs), exceptional athleticism, and football IQ. He's a master at extending plays, evading defenders with leaps and broken tackles. As center Connor McGovern puts it, 'There's so many variables [with Allen], and by the time you're thinking that through, he's already passed you because all of a sudden he's fast, too.' Allen is in a tight race with Bills running back James Cook III for the team lead in rushing touchdowns, a feat he's accomplished in five of his eight seasons, tying him for second-most in NFL history.
Hurts, on the other hand, relies on sheer power and finesse. A former high school powerlifter who can squat over 600 pounds, Hurts thrives in short-yardage situations. But he's also dangerous in space, excelling in the zone-read and run-pass option game. His ability to pull the ball and exploit overcommitting defenses has made the quarterback draw a potent weapon for the Eagles. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Hurts is just six rushing touchdowns away from tying Hall of Famer Steve Van Buren for the most in Eagles franchise history.
And this is the part most people miss: While the 'tush push' is a significant factor in Hurts' success (36 touchdowns since 2022, double Allen's 18), it's not the sole reason for his dominance. Allen, despite his size, relies less on the push, with only a fifth of his touchdowns coming from this play. The Bills' success near the goal line is a testament to Allen's versatility, not just the push.
So, can they break the record? For Allen, it's possible but unlikely. His rushing touchdowns have increased despite efforts to reduce his hits, and he's remained injury-free since his rookie year. However, as he ages, limiting contact will become crucial. For Hurts, sustaining this level of production for another decade seems like a stretch. He's already reducing his rushing attempts and yards, and defenses are increasingly neutralizing the 'tush push.'
But here's the controversial part: Should the NFL ban the 'tush push'? Some argue it's an unfair advantage, while others see it as a testament to teamwork and innovation. What do you think? Is it a legitimate strategy or a loophole that needs closing? Let us know in the comments. One thing's for certain: Hurts and Allen are redefining what it means to be a quarterback, and their pursuit of the rushing touchdown record will be one of the most captivating storylines in the NFL for years to come.
