Ref Explains Obscure Rule That Almost Gave the Eagles a Free Touchdown

‘Simply put, a team can’t commit multiple fouls in an effort to prevent the score,’ referee Shawn Hochuli said.

Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson (65) celebrates a touchdown by quarterback Jalen Hurts during the second half of the NFC Championship game against the Washington Commanders in Philadelphia on Jan. 26. Derik Hamilton/AP Photo

NFL audiences were introduced to an obscure rule during the NFC Championship game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Washington Commanders.

Early in the fourth quarter, the Eagles were set up with first and goal on the 1-yard line after a long run by running back Saquon Barkley. Chaos ensued as it took six plays for the Eagles to get into the end zone; this included four snaps of the same second-down play as the Commanders defense continued to jump offsides in an effort to stop Philly’s patented “Brotherly Shove” play. The referee later explained that an obscure rule could have awarded the Eagles six points.