Lions' Brian Branch Ejected For Controversial Hit On Packers QB In Playoffs
In a controversial moment during the wild card playoff game between the Detroit Lions and the Green Bay Packers, Lions safety Brian Branch was ejected for a hit on Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
The hit occurred in the third quarter, with the Packers facing a third-and-goal from the Lions' 1-yard line. Rodgers dropped back to pass, and Branch came in low and hit him hard. The hit knocked Rodgers to the ground, and he was slow to get up.
Branch was immediately flagged for unnecessary roughness, and after a review, he was ejected from the game. The Lions were furious with the call, and Branch flipped off the crowd as he was walking off the field.
The hit was a major turning point in the game. The Packers went on to score a touchdown on the next play, and they eventually won the game 28-23.
After the game, Branch said that he felt the hit was clean.
"I know the quarterback is a protected player, but I thought I hit him with my shoulder," Branch said. "I didn't try to hurt him."
The NFL is expected to review the hit and could potentially fine or suspend Branch.
Reactions To The Hit
The hit on Rodgers drew a strong reaction from both fans and analysts. Some people defended Branch, saying that the hit was not intentional and that he was simply trying to make a play. Others condemned the hit, calling it dirty and dangerous.
Packers coach Matt LaFleur was visibly upset after the hit.
"That was a dirty hit," LaFleur said. "There's no place for that in the game."
Lions coach Dan Campbell said that he did not think the hit was intentional.
"I think Brian was just trying to make a play," Campbell said. "I don't think he was trying to hurt Aaron Rodgers."
The NFL is expected to review the hit and could potentially fine or suspend Branch.