With the possibility of being the eighth player fined for the illegal tackle, Ravens LB Roquan Smith opens up about the tackle that took place on “Monday Night Football.”
Although the Baltimore Ravens won in commanding fashion on “Monday Night Football” one injury remains the topic of discussion and if it was “dirty.”
In the final minute of play during “MNF,” receiver Chris Godwin caught a 24-yard reception for a first down. While making his way up field, Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith tackled Godwin, which unfortunately led to Godwin’s left ankle being dislocated.
Godwin left the game early and got surgery earlier this week. He will miss the remainder of the 2024 season. As for Smith, the tackle is currently being reviewed by the NFL as a possible hip-drop tackle. According to league executive vice president Troy Vincent, there have been 22 “questionable tackles” these past two weeks. The penalty has yet to be called during a game and only seven players have been fined for the illegal tackle.
During today’s post-practice media time, the All-Pro linebacker broke his silence about the incident on “MNF.”
After giving his thoughts and prayers to Godwin and his family, Smith explained that injuring Godwin was not his intention but that sadly injuries are a facet of the game.
“We play a very physical game and it demands a lot. Bullets are flying fast. I never go into any game meaning to injure any player. I want every player to go back home safe and sound to their family – maybe a little sore – but other than that I want them to go back safe and sound,” Smith said.
Even though Smith apologized, it didn’t stop fans from calling Smith a dirty player. It’s important to note that these comments come from the Bengals and Chiefs’ fan base, teams that the Ravens meet during the regular season and playoffs.
In Week 18 of the 2022 season, Bengals fans accused Smith and other defensive players of “dirty tactics.” Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt accused the Ravens’ defense of “aiming at guys’ legs and stuff and other dirty hits.”
Head coach John Harbaugh stepped up to defend his players, saying “It’s clear our players played a clean game, as they always do. Millions of fans watched the game as well, and they saw the same thing. So, I would just say let them be the judges.”
The NFL Rules Committee has yet to give their final ruling on the tackle. If Smith’s tackle is deemed a hip-drop, he will become the eighth player fined for the illegal tackle.
As for now, the linebacker has his eyes set on Week 8’s opponent, the Cleveland Browns. Heading into this AFC North battle, Smith has 40 solo tackles (tied for eighth), a forced fumble and an interception.
