Wow, I'm kinda supprised at the NFL for this one. They have become an over protective "No Fun League" in alot of instances, but I guess even with the prior they deemed this not as bad. Funny thing is I felt there was more intent on this hit than the Boldin one from a couple years back, but good for us and smith that it came in as a light fione.
That play still pisses me off. Smith launched himself head first to where the ball was, right before Sherry did his patented elbow-tackle. It was incidental. If anything, they should have suspended Sherry for being a prancing fairy. E. Smith did deserve to get fined for this hit on Welker though, even though I'm pretty sure Welker flopped.
Do you know what a fore-arm shiver is????? The guys arms were open and he was going for the ball..... I always watch plays without bias and I'll stand up if I think people are wrong on the Jets side.... I just don't see it here.... Put it this way - with his arms open, the intent certainly wasn't for a Knockout punch or a Shiver.... Horrible place to hit someone on the inside part of your arm - probably hurt him more than Welsher.
TV does not do that play justice, there wasn't a doubt seeing it live at the Stadium it should have been called and regardless of his intentions when he brings his forearm up that's enough to draw the flag.
After the play, I think Eric Smith thought he was going to be called for helmet-to-helmet, so he kept emphasizing throwing a forearm. He pretty much admitted to it. The penalty was deserved, and also by design.
