In Week 14 of the 2024 NFL season, former Green Bay Packers linebacker Za’Darius Smith, now playing for the Detroit Lions, was fined $6,722 by the league for a roughing-the-passer incident involving Packers quarterback Jordan Love. The hit occurred during a closely contested game between the Lions and Packers, a matchup with significant implications for the NFC North standings. Although the hit to Love’s helmet was not flagged during the game, the league imposed the fine upon review, signaling its stance on player safety.

This moment added to the tension of the game, which saw the Lions narrowly defeat the Packers 34-31, extending their dominance atop the division. Smith, who spent three seasons with Green Bay earlier in his career, played a pivotal role in the Lions’ defense but attracted criticism for the unpenalized hit that could have changed the course of the game.

The incident also fueled frustration among Packers fans and head coach Matt LaFleur, who voiced concerns about inconsistent officiating throughout the game, including other controversial calls. Despite the setback, the Packers remain in contention for a playoff spot, while the Lions continue their impressive season.

In Week 14 of the 2024 NFL season, former Green Bay Packers linebacker Za’Darius Smith, now playing for the Detroit Lions, was fined $6,722 by the league for a roughing-the-passer incident involving Packers quarterback Jordan Love. The hit occurred during a closely contested game between the Lions and Packers, a matchup with significant implications for the NFC North standings. Although the hit to Love’s helmet was not flagged during the game, the league imposed the fine upon review, signaling its stance on player safety.

This moment added to the tension of the game, which saw the Lions narrowly defeat the Packers 34-31, extending their dominance atop the division. Smith, who spent three seasons with Green Bay earlier in his career, played a pivotal role in the Lions’ defense but attracted criticism for the unpenalized hit that could have changed the course of the game.

The incident also fueled frustration among Packers fans and head coach Matt LaFleur, who voiced concerns about inconsistent officiating throughout the game, including other controversial calls. Despite the setback, the Packers remain in contention for a playoff spot, while the Lions continue their impressive season.

In Week 14 of the 2024 NFL season, former Green Bay Packers linebacker Za’Darius Smith, now playing for the Detroit Lions, was fined $6,722 by the league for a roughing-the-passer incident involving Packers quarterback Jordan Love. The hit occurred during a closely contested game between the Lions and Packers, a matchup with significant implications for the NFC North standings. Although the hit to Love’s helmet was not flagged during the game, the league imposed the fine upon review, signaling its stance on player safety.

This moment added to the tension of the game, which saw the Lions narrowly defeat the Packers 34-31, extending their dominance atop the division. Smith, who spent three seasons with Green Bay earlier in his career, played a pivotal role in the Lions’ defense but attracted criticism for the unpenalized hit that could have changed the course of the game.

The incident also fueled frustration among Packers fans and head coach Matt LaFleur, who voiced concerns about inconsistent officiating throughout the game, including other controversial calls. Despite the setback, the Packers remain in contention for a playoff spot, while the Lions continue their impressive season.