By Moses Joshua 
Detroit’s dominant Week 7 win comes with postgame controversy and a costly fine for one defensive standout.
A Postgame Twist to a Statement Win
The Detroit Lions left Ford Field in celebration after their 24-9 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 7, improving to 5-2 and climbing to the top of both ESPN’s and the NFL’s Week 8 Power Rankings. But amid the celebration, a small cloud hovered over the team — one that came not from the game itself, but from the league office days later.
The NFL announced that Lions defensive end Tyrus Wheat had been fined $5,722 for “unnecessary roughness” — specifically for “striking/kicking/tripping/kneeing” Tampa Bay quarterback Baker Mayfield during a play that originally went unpenalized.
On the field, the referees ruled it a clean sack. Off the field, however, league officials saw it differently. In the NFL’s official Week 7 report, the fine was cited as part of its ongoing efforts to “protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity.”
What Happened Between Wheat and Mayfield
The moment in question came as Mayfield dropped back to pass under pressure. Wheat, bursting through the pocket, made contact that sent the Tampa Bay signal-caller to the turf — a play that looked routine in real time. But upon review, the league determined that Wheat’s takedown included a tripping motion, drawing the postgame penalty.
While the incident didn’t alter the outcome of the game, it serves as a reminder of how closely every snap is scrutinized under the NFL’s player safety protocols.
As the league clarified, all fines collected will go toward the Professional Athletes Foundation and the NFL Foundation, which support “the health, safety, and wellness of athletes across all levels, including youth football and the communities that support the game.”
Wheat wasn’t the only player disciplined from the matchup. The NFL also fined Tampa Bay running back Rachaad White a hefty $46,371 for “use of the helmet” during a separate play — a violation of the league’s emphasis on reducing head-related contact.
Lions Still Roaring at the Top
Despite the postgame punishment, Detroit remains firmly in control of its destiny. The win over the Buccaneers not only reinforced the Lions’ defensive dominance but also validated their resilience after a tough loss to Kansas City earlier in the season.
NFL analyst Eric Edholm praised the team’s performance, writing, “The Lions might have taken the Chiefs’ best punch in Week 6, but they took out their frustrations on a good Bucs team that they might see again in January.”
Over at Fox Sports, Ralph Vacchiano echoed the sentiment: “The Lions sure bounced back nicely from their loss in Kansas City with a win over the Bucs. They aren’t perfect, but they can do it all and may be the most complete team in the NFL.”
Looking Ahead: Eyes on Minnesota
Detroit now turns its focus to a divisional clash with the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, November 2. The Vikings are reeling after a 37-10 loss to the Los Angeles Chargers, leaving their quarterback situation uncertain heading into the matchup.
While the Lions may have to pay a small price for Wheat’s aggression, the team’s confidence — and their league-leading momentum — remain untouched. As head coach Dan Campbell has often emphasized, Detroit’s success is built on toughness, discipline, and unity — values that even a fine can’t shake.