The NFL has decided on a punishment related to a hit on Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff during a recent game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The incident occurred in the final moments of a closely contested match that ended with the Steelers winning 29-24.
NFL Punishment for Steelers Defender
On Saturday, the league announced that Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith would face a fine of $12,172. Highsmith tripped Goff in the last two minutes of the game, negating his sack and pushing the Lions to Pittsburgh’s 36-yard line. This controversial hit played a role in a critical drive for Detroit.
Game Overview
While the Lions reached the red zone and appeared to score a game-winning touchdown with a pass from Amon-Ra St. Brown to Goff, the officials flagged St. Brown for offensive pass interference. This crucial penalty ended the game and severely impacted Detroit’s playoff aspirations.
Additional Fines Issued
- Alex Highsmith: $12,172 for tripping Jared Goff.
- Yahya Black (defensive end): $5,194 for an obscene gesture in the first quarter.
Detroit Lions’ Recent Struggles
The Lions, having lost to the Steelers, experienced another defeat against the Minnesota Vikings, extending their losing streak to three games. This marked a stark change for a team that had not faced back-to-back losses in over three years.
Jared Goff’s Frustrations
Following the losses, Goff expressed his frustration regarding the team’s performance. He highlighted the differences in play after halftime, stating, “They came out in the second half and adjusted pretty well.” Goff felt that the team struggled to respond to these adjustments effectively, which contributed to their defeats.
Looking Ahead
As the season concludes, the Lions face a long offseason filled with questions about their roster. Key players, including wide receiver Kalif Raymond and tight end Shane Zylstra, will be scrutinized, along with backup quarterback Kyle Allen, who is set to enter free agency. The organization must carefully evaluate its future, particularly regarding support for Goff.
