Texans' Mixon Injury: Tackle Not Hip-Drop, But Still a Controversial Play
The Cincinnati Bengals' running back, Joe Mixon, sustained a season-ending Achilles injury during a Week 1 matchup against the Houston Texans. This incident triggered a wave of controversy, with many accusing Texans linebacker Christian Harris of a "hip-drop" tackle, a move widely considered dangerous and illegal. However, a closer look at the play reveals a different story.
What Really Happened?
While the initial reaction was swift and passionate, a review of the play reveals that the tackle wasn't a hip-drop as many believed. Harris, after making contact with Mixon, wraps his arms around the running back's lower body, pulling him down in a controlled manner. This tackling technique, though forceful, doesn't demonstrate the forceful downward motion of a hip-drop, which is often characterized by driving the opponent into the ground with a direct impact on the hips.
Here's why it wasn't a hip-drop:
- No direct hip impact: Harris doesn't directly target Mixon's hips with the force of his tackle.
- Controlled takedown: His arms are wrapped around Mixon's body, indicating a controlled takedown rather than a forceful, uncontrolled hip-drop.
- Angle of impact: The tackle happened with Harris approaching Mixon from the side, not head-on, which lessens the impact and prevents a direct hit on the hips.
The Controversy Continues
Despite the evidence suggesting Harris's tackle wasn't a hip-drop, the play has generated debate. Many still hold strong opinions on the nature of the tackle, emphasizing the severity of Mixon's injury.
Here's why the controversy persists:
- High impact: The tackle was certainly forceful and aggressive, even if not a hip-drop.
- Unfortunate outcome: The fact that Mixon suffered a serious injury further fuels the debate, even if not directly caused by an illegal move.
- Perception of player safety: The NFL has actively promoted player safety, and this tackle, regardless of its legality, raises concerns about the potential for serious injuries.
Takeaways and Future Implications
While the specific play may have been legal, it highlights the ongoing struggle to balance aggressive play with player safety. The NFL continues to evolve its rules and penalties to address player protection, with a particular focus on dangerous tackling techniques. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible tackling and the need for players to be aware of the potential consequences of their actions on the field.
It's crucial for players and fans alike to understand the nuances of tackling techniques and to evaluate plays based on concrete evidence, avoiding quick judgments fueled by emotion or speculation.
