By Moses Joshua 
League cracks down on dangerous helmet use as Rachaad White takes major financial hit following Week 7 clash
Bucs Running Back Penalized After Unflagged Hit
The NFL has handed down a hefty punishment to Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White, fining him $46,371 for an illegal hit in the team’s Week 7 matchup against the Detroit Lions. The penalty stemmed from a first-quarter play during Detroit’s 24–9 victory at Ford Field, when White lowered his helmet and initiated forcible contact with Lions safety Erick Hallett.
Although no flag was thrown during the game, the league’s routine film review determined that White had violated its rule on impermissible use of the helmet—a measure designed to protect players from head and neck injuries.
Under Article 10 of the NFL rulebook, a player commits a foul if he “lowers his head and makes forcible contact with his helmet against an opponent.” The rule applies to both offensive and defensive players and has been a key point of emphasis in recent seasons as the league continues its effort to reduce dangerous contact.
Repeat Offender Hit With Maximum Fine
This isn’t White’s first run-in with the rule. The fine was doubled because it marked his second offense, having been penalized late last season for a nearly identical hit. A first-time violation draws a $23,186 fine, while repeat offenses carry the steeper $46,371 penalty.
The league noted in its weekly discipline report that the punishment was part of its ongoing campaign to discourage reckless use of the helmet. While neither White nor the Buccaneers commented on the specific play, the incident added another layer of frustration to an already rough night for Tampa Bay’s offense.
White managed just 38 rushing yards as the Lions’ defensive front suffocated the Buccaneers, limiting them to 251 total yards. Quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 28 of 50 passes for 228 yards with a touchdown and an interception, but the Lions controlled the tempo from start to finish.
Detroit’s Offense Dominates Behind Gibbs
While the Buccaneers were left licking their wounds, Detroit’s rookie sensation Jahmyr Gibbs put on a show. The young running back exploded for 218 total yards and two touchdowns, earning Player of the Week buzz and giving the Lions a commanding 5–2 record heading into their bye.
Head coach Dan Campbell praised his team’s balance and resilience following the win:
“Let the body heal a little bit and get right for the last push,” Campbell said. “It feels good to get to 5-2. I’m pleased with the team… we’re going to start to get a lot of players back over the next month, so that is encouraging.”
Lions Look Ahead to Key NFC North Showdown
After a well-earned break, the Lions will host the Minnesota Vikings in a critical Week 9 divisional matchup. Detroit has turned the tide in what was once a lopsided rivalry, winning six of the last ten meetings.
At 3–4, Minnesota is fighting to stay alive in the playoff race, making the upcoming clash pivotal for both sides. Another victory would solidify Detroit’s grip atop the NFC North and reinforce its standing among the league’s elite alongside Philadelphia and San Francisco.
For now, the Lions can rest easy knowing that while the NFL continues to hand out fines for rough play, Detroit is doing just fine where it matters most — on the scoreboard.