This was a terrible call. I think targeting should be eliminated. Refs have always had the authority to eject players under the unnecessary roughness foul. Anyone who has played knows when someone is trying to injure a player and not just make a strong hit for a tackle or block.
I know some have called Gerry's tackle being textbook. I don't agree. Planting your face chest high into the runner is not good- neck injuries can result and you can't see if there is a fumble or lateral. He should have lowered his shoulder for a hit between the pads and the knees and wrap up legs. Usually, there will be no Yards After Contact. As my old coach used to say " collar bones can heal but neck injuries don't". Maybe overstated but I believe its the correct way to tackle or block.
I don't think Gerry did anything wrong. Football is supposed to be a contact sport and that's why they wear pads and helmets. Hitting hard for intimidation and fumbles is part of the game. Targeting is difficult to define since both bodies may be moving and be unable to change their momentum but both may instinctively duck their heads. They don't call targeting or facemasks when runners put their heads down for a hit or use a stiff arm to the tackler's face or head. I say let them play and have the refs make their judgement calls on those times when a player is intentionally trying to hurt another player,
I know some have called Gerry's tackle being textbook. I don't agree. Planting your face chest high into the runner is not good- neck injuries can result and you can't see if there is a fumble or lateral. He should have lowered his shoulder for a hit between the pads and the knees and wrap up legs. Usually, there will be no Yards After Contact. As my old coach used to say " collar bones can heal but neck injuries don't". Maybe overstated but I believe its the correct way to tackle or block.
I don't think Gerry did anything wrong. Football is supposed to be a contact sport and that's why they wear pads and helmets. Hitting hard for intimidation and fumbles is part of the game. Targeting is difficult to define since both bodies may be moving and be unable to change their momentum but both may instinctively duck their heads. They don't call targeting or facemasks when runners put their heads down for a hit or use a stiff arm to the tackler's face or head. I say let them play and have the refs make their judgement calls on those times when a player is intentionally trying to hurt another player,