During the Detroit Lions’ first drive of the game, receiver Jameson Williams grabbed a sideline pass before being pushed out of bounds (possibly late) by Chicago Bears linebacker Tyrique Stevenson. The two exchanged eyes before Williams twisted the ball and returned to the field. But before he could leave the bench, the refs flagged Williams for taunting. Williams has received a 15-yard penalty for the second time in as many games following a disagreement with Stevenson. On Thanksgiving, Williams tossed the ball at Stevenson after he was tripped up by the Chicago defensive back, who was not even involved in the play. Ironically, it was Stevenson who was fined for the incident a few weeks back.
Williams justified his conduct to the media following the game, as recorded by Justin Rogers of the Detroit Football Network. “On the first play, I just caught the ball, and I (spun) it,” stated Williams. “I said nothing to him, and he did not say anything to me. I just spun the ball. I believe the flag resulted from an overreaction on their sideline. Everyone said, ‘Oh, oh, oh.’ However, when someone makes a big catch, they spin the ball. You undoubtedly watched the game today and saw the ball spin 12 or more times. We did not say anything to one other today.”
The rules provides no clear definition for taunting. It simply states, “using baiting or taunting acts or words that may engender ill will between teams.” Following the incident, the FOX broadcast revealed a discussion between Williams and coach Dan Campbell. After the game, Campbell stated that he was unconcerned by Williams’ behavior. In fact, he was impressed by Williams’ ability to move on from the play.
“He was excellent. “He was,” Campbell explained. “He came over, and it was like, ‘Look, you can’t just give him a free ride.'” And he knew. So he simply got it out of the way, got back on the field, and was OK. That’s what I adore about him. He does not lose his cool. He just says, ‘I got it,’ and goes back in, and it doesn’t effect how he plays the rest of the game. It was excellent, man. I appreciate where he is right now.”
So, there you have it. The Lions are unconcerned about it, which is logical given Williams’ very light infraction. Certainly, you can’t give the authorities an excuse to throw a flag, but Williams hasn’t lost his mind or anything. And given that Williams finished the game with five catches, 143 yards, and a touchdown, I believe the Lions will take it.
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