Mixon Injury: Not a Hip-Drop Tackle
The injury to Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon during the Bengals' Week 1 game against the Cleveland Browns sparked immediate controversy, with many claiming it was a "hip-drop tackle" by Browns defensive end Myles Garrett. However, upon closer examination of the play and available evidence, it's clear that the injury was not the result of a hip-drop tackle.
Analyzing the Play:
The play in question occurred in the second quarter, with Mixon running towards the endzone. Garrett attempted to tackle Mixon, but it appears the Bengals running back stepped on Garrett's foot during the play. The impact of the tackle caused Mixon to lose his balance and fall awkwardly, resulting in a displaced left ankle and a fractured left foot.
Here's why it wasn't a hip-drop tackle:
- No evidence of intentional hip drop: The footage doesn't show Garrett lowering his hips with the intent of driving Mixon into the ground. He was simply trying to make a tackle, and the injury seems to have been a result of an unfortunate accident.
- Mixon's step on Garrett's foot: The main contributing factor to Mixon's fall was his step on Garrett's foot, which destabilized him and led to the awkward landing.
- No official ruling of a foul: The referees on the field didn't flag Garrett for any foul play, including a hip-drop tackle.
The Impact:
While it was unfortunate that Mixon sustained such a severe injury, the blame should not be placed on Garrett. The injury appears to have been a result of a confluence of factors, including a chaotic play, a step on Garrett's foot, and an unfortunate landing.
It's important to avoid spreading misinformation and jumping to conclusions without proper evidence. Accusations of dirty play can have significant repercussions for the player involved and the team, so it's crucial to rely on accurate information and analysis before forming opinions.
Moving Forward:
With Mixon sidelined for the rest of the season, the Bengals will have to adjust their offensive strategy. Their running back depth will be tested, and their ability to replace Mixon's production will be a crucial factor in their success this year.
As for Garrett, the incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in the game of football. While the injury to Mixon was unfortunate, it was not a result of intentional foul play.
