There were two hits in the Steelers 23-20 loss to the Baltimore Ravens Sunday night at Heinz Field that everyone will be talking about for the next few days.
The first hit happened with just over 14 minutes left in the first half when quarterback Ben Roethlisberger looked to connect with Hines Ward on a pass over the middle. Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis hit Ward helmet-to-helmet after the catch and Ward dropped to the ground almost immediately as he seemed to be out on his feet. After slamming hard to the ground with his helmet the ball popped out. The play was challenged and eventually overturned and Lewis was not flagged on the play and Ward did not return after suffering from concussion-like symptoms. You can see a screenshot of the hit being initiated by Lewis below.
The second big hit in the game came with just under 30 seconds left in the first half as Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco hit tight end Ed Dickson in stride on a deep pass to the right side. Steelers free safety Ryan Clark was flagged for unnecessary roughness on the play after separating Dickson from the ball after leading with his shoulder. Dickson appeared to lower his helmet just before impact and the two players hit helmet to helmet as well. You can see a picture of the initial contact below.
One thing that is probably certain concerning these two hits is that both Lewis and Clark will be fined $15K each. Clark was fined $15K last week for a hit out of bounds on Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski. We will know for sure by Thursday at the latest as the fines should be made public by then. You can see the video replay of both hits in the game highlights on NFL.com
