In a recent playoff game, Detroit Lions safety Kerby Joseph's tackles on tight ends Tyler Higbee of the Los Angeles Rams and T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings have raised eyebrows and drawn public scrutiny. Both Higbee and Hockenson suffered torn ACLs as a result of Joseph's low hits. However, Lions coach Dan Campbell has come forward to defend Joseph's play, stating that it adhered to the rules and was not intended to be dirty.

Coach Campbell addressed the controversy during a press conference on Wednesday, emphasizing the team's football philosophy. "That's how we play football here," Campbell stated. "Just keep your head up, see what you hit. That'll always be what I tell Kerby. Just keep your eyes up so you don't hit on the crown of your helmet, hit a spine, mess yourself up there. Just see what you hit. But, no, he's going for the thigh board and staying away from the head. That's how we play defense here. It's not dirty. You know, we hit."

Video footage of the hit on Higbee clearly shows Joseph leading with his head down, prompting concerns of a dangerous tackle. The Rams believe that Higbee tore his ACL as a result of the low hit. Similarly, the tackle on Hockenson, although lacking clear angles, appears to be a similar situation where Joseph's head placement needs improvement to prevent injuries.

Despite the controversy surrounding Joseph's hits, some players have come to his defense, citing NFL rules and the limited choices defensive backs have in such situations. Vikings safety Harrison Smith acknowledged that the rules have encouraged hits like Joseph's, providing an effective way for defenders to protect certain areas of the field without incurring penalties.

Joseph, who maintains that his intention was never to hurt anyone, was not fined for the hit on Hockenson. The Lions' defense continues to stand by their aggressive playing style, with Coach Campbell asserting that their approach adheres to the rules and is an integral part of their game strategy.

With ongoing discussions surrounding player safety in football, the controversy sparked by Joseph's tackles raises questions about the fine line between legal play and potential for injury. As the league continues to emphasize player safety, it remains to be seen whether further action will be taken in response to such tackles in the future.