Yep. The NFL is hypocritical, exactly in the ways explained by veteran Steelers WR Hines Ward. As Ward put it, they say they are protecting the players, then want to go and increase the length of the season. Because the season would be longer, it creates more opportunities for injury, many more than they are "preventing" by fining defensive players who either touch a quarterback or put a hard hit on a receiver.
I loved the other point Ward made, about the hypocrisy regarding the league's advertising. He explains how the league discourages the players from drinking, which does make sense, but then half their ads are beer commercials. Also, the league discourages players from gambling, which also makes sense, but is affiliated with gambling sites. This relates perfectly to, for example, a teacher telling a class not to chew gum while they are themselves. Obvious hypocrisy.
The fining of players makes some sense. But the system in which the fines are decided is terrible, at least it seems. No one except the league knows exactly what it is, or even if there is one. There needs to be a definite process developed, and explained to the players. It is flawed in another way as well; only defensive players are targeted. Running backs, more than a few times, have lowered their helmet and crushed into defenders, many of which are similar to the plays defensive men have been fined on. These don't warrant fines, because it's an offensive player.
The relationship between the league and the players and their association currently in shambles. The league has been suing players regarding benefits and the such. There are the behind-the-scenes aspects no one really hears about, the confusing things not interesting to the common fan. Basically, the fact of the matter is the state of the league is not as good as it was a few years ago, and football still isn't definite for next season.
I've been incredibly busy lately and haven't written in five weeks, but I can guarantee there will be a new post early this week and regularly after that.
do you think the hit heath miller took should draw a fine? that was a face shot? how about the bending of ben's plastic schnoz? i don't think the ravens had any penalties called against them
ReplyDeleteThe hit on Miller was very dangerous, but the player's momentum seemed to carry him into Miller, however it could have been prevented. It could be the kind of hit that warrants a fine, because it wasn't a wrap-up hit. What I am questioning is the process in which the fines are determined. I agree with the idea that a committee of former NFL players should decide on the fining, not just some league official.
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