The Detroit Lions and Philadelphia Eagles played each other on Sunday, November 16, and now, two Detroit Lions players are being hit with punishments from the NFL for their actions in that game. Unfortunately for the Lions, Detroit lost the matchup with a 16-9 final score, which hit them hard when it comes to rankings in the NFC North and NFC overall. So, to say that the team’s game against the New York Giants on Sunday, Nov. 23, is a must win is an understatement.
Each Saturday during the season, the NFL hands down punishments to players for actions taken during the previous week’s games. The NFL states on their website that these actions are “to protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity.” They add that the NFL and NFL Players Association agree on the set of game-related rules violations that may result in accountability measures.
So, two Lions players are being punished following the game, and one is an obvious one in wide receiver Jameson Williams, who celebrated a bit too much after his touchdown in the second quarter. After catching a pass from Jared Goff, he headed up a 74-yard drive for a touchdown, but he celebrated by leaping onto the stanchion, which is a no-no. But, he’s not the only one getting punished.
NFL Punishes Detroit Lions Defensive Player
Joining Williams in getting a fine from the NFL is Detroit Lions defensive back Brian Branch. On Saturday, the NFL slapped Branch with a $11,599 fine for “unnecessarily roughness” and “use of the helmet” in the third quarter of the game. As for Williams, that they’re fining him $14,491 for “use of prop” and “unsportsmanlike conduct.” So, the NFL really threw the book at both of them, but the Williams one was totally expected.
According to the NFL, the funds raised from those fines will go to the Professional Athletes Foundation to “support legends in need and the NFL Foundation to further support the health, safety and wellness of athletes across all levels, including youth football and the communities that support the game.”
If either players want to appeal this decision, they can. “Players are notified of violations and may appeal any ruling,” the NFL says in their official rules book. “Cases are heard by appeals officers and former NFL players, Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster or Jordy Nelson, who are jointly appointed and paid by the NFL/NFLPA. The decisions made are final and binding.”
Looking Ahead for the Detroit Lions
But now, it’s time to look ahead, and both Branch and Williams will be at the Lions’ game on Sunday, Nov. 23, against the New York Giants. In the NFL’s predictions going into Week 12, the league’s reporting team says that “the Lions’ inconsistency this season is a concern.” But, according to their research, “they have top-five units on both sides of the ball, and I trust Dan Campbell to seize this opportunity to get things lined up for the stretch run.”
The New York Giants are totally banged up and have none of their stars healthy, so this game shouldn’t be close. But, of course, anything can happen in the NFL.
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