The Unstoppable Force: Rating Sports' Toughest Plays

The Philadelphia Eagles' "Tush Push" is a powerful play, but is it the most unstoppable in sports history? Statistically, it's not perfect, with a 93% success rate in 2022 dropping to 83% last season. However, the sheer force and intimidation factor make it feel invincible. Will Grier, a former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, agrees, saying it felt "unstoppable. " But what truly defines an "unstoppable" play? It should have a clear goal and let the defense intervene. Passes in basketball or hockey don't count, nor do obvious disadvantages like QB kneels or punts in football. An at-bat in baseball is a play, but not a single pitch.

Examining contenders like Jacques Plante's saves, Shaquille O'Neal's close-range shots, and Barry Bonds' on-base percentage reveals that none are 100% effective. Plante's saves, while impressive, are expected of goalies. O'Neal's shots could be countered with fouls. Bonds' on-base percentage, however, was unprecedented, making him the most unstoppable. The Eagles' "Tush Push" is powerful, but getting one yard isn't unique. Bonds' 60. 9% on-base rate in 2004 is extraordinary. It's 14% higher than the next best in that season and far exceeds modern players. Thus, Barry Bonds stepping up to the plate in 2004 takes the crown for the most unstoppable play in sports history.

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