The Los Angeles Rams and Detroit Lions squared off in a postseason match that will be remembered for both its result and controversy. Fans and players are debating the incident that occurred in the fourth quarter in a heated manner. After a contentious hit by Lions safety Kerby Joseph, tight end Tyler Higbee of the Rams sustained ruptured ACL and MCL ligaments, causing a stir in the NFL community.
The Controversial Hit
Higbee was trying to catch a pass when he was hit. The blow from Joseph caused his leg to bend unnaturally, including contact with his back and shoulders. Despite Higbee’s serious injuries, Joseph did not receive a penalty. Many have questioned the validity of the hit and the officials’ judgment after it because of the lack of punishment.
Accusations and Defenses
The quarterback for the Rams, Matthew Stafford, was blunt in his criticism of Joseph. On a video that was mic’d up, he was heard calling Joseph “dirty as f–k.” Stafford also brought up Joseph’s identical hit on Vikings tight end T.J. Hockenson, which caused an ACL rupture. Joseph did, however, defend his actions after the game. He resorted to social media to remind everyone of the dangerous nature of football and to declare that he had no intention of hurting anyone.
Safety of lions Joseph received support from C.J. Gardner-Johnson and coach Dan Campbell as well. Gardner-Johnson said that Stafford’s toss put Higbee in harm’s path, and Campbell told Joseph not to use the helmet’s crown by telling him to “always see what you hit.”
The Aftermath
The Lions prevailed in spite of the controversy, winning their first postseason game in thirty-two years. However, Higbee, who is now 31 years old, has a difficult task ahead of her: getting well in time for the upcoming season. In addition to drawing criticism and discussion within the NFL community, this incident has raised awareness of player safety and the fundamentals of the game.
