$5K Fine For Ray Lewis: Another Display Of Poor Judgement By The NFL

Football.  It's supposed to be a man's game right?  Hard hits, broken jaws, career ending injuries, and a tough-as-nails attitude that is unlike any other in any professional sport. 

Today though, the unthinkable happened.  Ray Lewis was fined $5,000 for a late hit on Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Austin Collie that occured in last weeks AFC Divisional Game at Lucas Oil Stadium.

A questionable helmet to helmet call was made on the field, and although Collie did score the touchdown, there was notable contact from Lewis.  The flag was drawn, the microphone came on and the call "Personal Foul: Unnecessary roughness, defense number 52..." was automatically heard.  Forums lit up, the press raised some questions, but it all blew over within a day's time.

Now the issue is back.  Loud mouth talking Ray has been fined, and many NFL fans can do nothing but sit back and watch their beloved game helplessly turn into what is fast becoming known as "the sissy league".

NFL.com's Jason La Canforna reports that the NFL, along with Rodger Goodell, decided today to take immediate action against Ray Lewis' illegal hit that could have resulted in injury.  The key word here is could have.  If I recall correctly, while watching this game, the CBS commentating team did make the statement following the penalty that read "How is Ray Lewis supposed to try and free the ball?".  Sorry, but I can't help but agree.

For a team like the Ravens, who rely on the physicality both mentally and physically in nearly every game, their instincts can't help but say go for the hard hit.  Lewis in particular, who has made a name for himself for being one of the most hard hitting line backers in the NFL, now has to second guess himself before entering a tackle.

The rule book is there for a reason, fair enough.  Taking it to the level where a player is fined though seems to be a tad bit too much.  Lewis has been fined before, and has dealt with it in a calm manner.  In past times though, it has been for legitimate things.  Not for playing the game with intensity, passion, and a desire to win.

Previously, the NFL has been balanced and stable.  Now it's resembling the image of an old man returning soup to a deli.  Senile, and overheard.  Above all else, a game of favorites is starting to emerge.  Depending on what type of player you are, the different style of treatment you shall receive.  From what was once the hardest hitting, toughest sport in the world,  has turned into one of the most "sissiest".  I still love it, but the way things have turned out, it would make Vince Lombardi himself turn over in his grave.