Jadeveon Clowney received criticism online for his hit on Carson Wentz that caused the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback to exit Sunday’s wild card game in the first quarter with a possible concussion.
Wentz was scrambling on the play and going down to the ground when Clowney dove in and hit the Eagles quarterback in the back of the head. Wentz’s head then hit the turf hard, so he took shots to both the back and front of his head as a result of the hit.
Clowney was not penalized even though he led with the crown of his helmet when hitting Wentz. This was the officials’ explanation for the lack of a penalty call:
The Eagles’ offense only managed nine points without Wentz in the 17-9 loss.
Clowney was asked about the hit after the game and said his intent was not to injure Wentz and that he didn’t think it was that bad.
The hit Clowney referenced came last season against Nick Foles. Much like this hit on Wentz, Clowney led with the crown of his helmet. That seems to be his problem. And while I don’t think his intent was to injure Wentz, he needs to stop leading with his crown.
Eagles lineman Jason Peters called the play “dirty” right away.
Eagles head coach Doug Pederson offered a no comment on the hit.
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