Lions coach Dan Campbell vigorously defended his safety, Kerby Joseph, against accusations of a “dirty” hit following their victory over the Los Angeles Rams.
Despite the controversy surrounding Joseph’s low tackle on Rams tight end Tyler Higbee, which resulted in an ACL tear, Campbell dismissed claims that it was a malicious play.
In response to critics calling for a closer look at tackles below the waist, where defenders can flip offensive players in the air, Campbell delivered a straightforward message asserting that Joseph’s hit was not “dirty.”
#Lions HC Dan Campbell on Kerby Joseph being labeled dirty: “That’s how we play football here. Just keep your head up, see what you hit. That’ll always be what I tell Kerby. … He’s going for the thigh board and staying away from the head. That’s how we play defense here. It’s… https://t.co/N4NCrhXyh4 pic.twitter.com/e92Lm63vpf
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 18, 2024
A screenshot of the disputed play accompanied Campbell’s comments, and some fans even shared images suggesting questionable actions by Rams players, such as a purported dive at the knees of Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, who had previously suffered a knee injury.
“Just keep your head up, see what you hit.” pic.twitter.com/BmGrN1OOpj
— Sadchickenfan (@savt301) January 18, 2024
The Lions, having secured a victory against their former quarterback Matthew Stafford and the Rams, are now gearing up for the Divisional Round against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Nothing to see here pic.twitter.com/dwYgNFOTiY
— Happy Gilmore (@whitmore2800) January 18, 2024
The game, scheduled for 3 p.m. ET, is anticipated to be a challenging matchup, and the Lions are optimistic that key players like LaPorta and quarterback Jared Goff will deliver their best performances, especially considering the formidable challenge posed by Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers at Ford Field.
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