Popped up in my feed today. Not often the NFL admits to a mistake in officiating.
The Detroit Lions edged out the Green Bay Packers 34-31 in a thrilling Thursday Night Football showdown on December 5. While the game had its share of highlights, a controversial moment stole the post-game headlines. Lions defensive end Za'Darius Smith delivered a forearm hit to Packers quarterback Jordan Love as he scrambled out of the pocket. The play went unflagged, sparking backlash from fans and analysts alike.
NFL Responds with Fine for Roughing the Passer
Following a post-game review, the NFL fined Smith $6,722 for "roughing the passer." The fine is a tacit acknowledgment by the league of the referees’ mistake in not penalizing Smith during the game. This incident highlights ongoing scrutiny over officiating consistency in the NFL, particularly in high-stakes matchups like this NFC North clash.
Za’Darius Smith: A Rivalry Rekindled
Smith’s history with the Packers adds an extra layer of drama to the story. A former Green Bay player for three seasons, Smith relished the opportunity to face his old team. After the game, he told sideline reporter Stacey Dales, “I came to Detroit and got my revenge.” Smith has now played for three NFC North teams, including the Minnesota Vikings, and seems to enjoy proving himself against his former squads.
While Smith’s fine draws attention, it’s not the first time officiating has been under fire this season. The missed call could have shifted momentum in a tightly contested game, but it also raises questions about the league's handling of such incidents. Fines may provide accountability, but fans and teams often wonder if stricter real-time enforcement could prevent these issues altogether.