http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-total-access/09000d5d81b76571/Are-illegal-hits-handled-correctlythe american national football league is looking to prevent injuries stemming from contact to the head during play. most cases are from a defender making a hit on a defenseless offensive player, often putting their hands above their head to catch the football - leaving their bodies completely exposed
Recently a linebacker for the pittsburgh steelers was fined $75,000 for one illegal hit during last sundays game, but he was fined so much because he is a repeat offender.
Several retired players suggest that suspension will be the only deterring factor in preventing these hits as most starters get paid well over 10 million dollars and $15,000 fines isnt enough for potentially ending someones life/career/ability to walk
others argue that the hard hits are an inherent part of the game, and that A: the offensive receiver should not run across the middle of the field subjecting himself to open field hits if he is unprepared for what may come to him
and B: the quarterback throwing the ball should be liable to some degree for throwing the ball in such a place that leaves his offensive receivers vulnerable for such a hit
This post was edited by Honestly on Oct 20 2010 12:01am