The Lions are a dirty team. With Ndamukong Suh voted as the league's dirtiest player (in a poll by Sporting News), Jim Schwartz's aggressive reaction to Harbaugh's handshake, and now Stafford's dirty play after throwing an INT, the Lions are replacing the Titans as the league's dirtiest team. On Sunday, when D.J. Moore (Bears' DB) blocked Stafford after the interception, Stafford grabbed him by the ear holes of the helmet and threw him to the ground. Moore then responded by charging towards the QB head first. A brawl ensued, consisting most of the Lions' bench. D.J. Moore was ejected from the game while Stafford and the Lions were not penalized. Stafford took advantage of the NFL rule book that protects and favors the QB position in most instances.
In a press conference after the game, Jim Schwartz was asked whether or not Stafford's hit on Moore could face league discipline, he responded "Discipline for what? For their guy getting kicked out of the game? For their guy getting kicked out of the game? Did Matt get penalized? No, Matt did not get penalized." Jim Schwartz's behavior champions the same type of behavior from his players. This type of play and lack of composure will not win them championships. No coach should condone the type of behavior exhibited by Stafford on Sunday. Looks like the meltdown with Harbaugh on October 16th has sent Schwartz and the Lions on a downward spiral. Losing 3 of their last 4 games, the Lions are imploding just like the Bills. Except with zero class. Jim Schwartz needs to stop acting like an over emotional soccer dad whose kid got elbowed on the soccer field. Maybe he could take some notes from Mike Tomlin, Lovie Smith, or Mike McCarthy on sideline composure.
The Lions played dirty, while the Bears played tough. I'm guessing there's a page in the Lion's playbook that says "If you can't beat em, hurt em". Sounds about right for a team coached by Jeff Fisher's protege.
What do you think, are the Lions a dirty team? (Vote on top right hand side)
I agree with your analysis 100%. I saw the Saints playing chippy today against them. What's the common element? The Lions. I can only imagine what they're saying (jawing) on the field. Schwartz is analogous to a bad parent. No discipline for his kids is only going to result in them getting in trouble. There's a reason why successful teams (Packers, Saints, Ravens, Steelers) seem to have a "code of conduct". Their coaches don't let the players get out of hand.
ReplyDeleteLions had 11 penalties for 108 yds. You would think with Suh's suspension, that they would be better behaved. I think Schwartz lost control over his team when it comes to discipline after the Harbaugh incident.
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