By Sunday 
League acknowledges controversial play during pivotal playoff game
The Detroit Lions faced heartbreak in their divisional playoff matchup against the Washington Commanders, losing 45-31 in what many expected to be a Lions victory. Despite the disappointment, some justice has been served as the NFL issued fines in response to controversial plays that occurred during the game.
Controversial Hit Leads to Fine
During the game, Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu delivered a hit on Lions quarterback Jared Goff that sparked outrage among fans. The hit, which went unpenalized, directly contributed to a pick-six that shifted the game’s momentum in favor of the Commanders.
On Saturday, January 25, the NFL announced that Luvu has been fined $16,883 for a “blow to the head/neck” of Goff. While the penalty does not change the game’s outcome, it validates fan frustration over the missed call.
NFL analyst Tom Pelissero highlighted the impact of the play, describing it as a “pivotal moment” in Washington’s upset victory.
“The NFL fined Commanders LB Frankie Luvu $16,883 for roughing the passer (blow to the head/neck) — his block on Lions QB Jared Goff that aided a pick-six return,” Pelissero shared on X. “No flag was thrown on what ended up being a pivotal play in Washington’s upset win.”
Additional Fines Issued
Luvu’s controversial hit on Goff wasn’t the only play under scrutiny. The linebacker was also fined another $16,883 for an illegal hip-drop tackle on Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs during Detroit’s subsequent possession. Though no penalty was called, the Lions capitalized on the drive with a touchdown.
Meanwhile, Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams faced disciplinary action as well. Williams was fined $25,355 for unsportsmanlike conduct following a 61-yard touchdown, where he made obscene gestures during the play.
Goff Reflects on the Loss
Despite the fines, the Lions’ season is over, and the Commanders will advance to the NFC Championship against the Philadelphia Eagles. Following the game, Jared Goff expressed his disappointment but showed unwavering support for head coach Dan Campbell, who took responsibility for the loss.
“He is our rock, man,” Goff said of Campbell. “He is, and he shouldn’t do that, but that’s who he is, and we feed off his emotion, his energy… He believes in us, and he loves us.”
Goff acknowledged the Commanders’ strengths but suggested the Lions could have had a different outcome if they had performed at their best.
“They’re a good team, but if we had played our best, maybe it’s a different outcome. I don’t know, but you’d like to think so,” Goff said.
Justice After Controversy
While the fines don’t change the Lions’ elimination, they offer some closure for fans who felt the officiating fell short during the game. As the Commanders prepare for the next round, the Lions will look ahead to the offseason with hopes of building on their progress and returning stronger next year.