In the previous NFL seasons, Simone Biles radiated joy from off-field, but in 2024, the gymnast has chosen to remain conspicuously absent from the public’s eye. In the wake of her husband’s controversial remarks during the Pivot Podcast, the newlywed has entered a new era of public scrutiny. Even during such difficult times, the gymnastics G.O.A.T has continued to support her husband, even going to the extreme of challenging the Dallas team on behalf of the Packers.
Recently, Simone Biles had a bold message for the Dallas Cowboys, quipping, “We are coming for you Dallas”. However, in light of Jonathan Owens’ fierce play tactics in Sunday’s match against Chicago, her prognostication has attained new meaning.
Jonathan Owens’ controversial play complicates Simone Biles’ message
The Green Bay Packers star unleashed a brutal hit on the opposing quarterback, Justin Fields, during Sunday’s match. The bleachers at Lambeau Field were filled by NFL fans who were shocked by Owens’ aggressive playstyle. There was a scramble on the field during the fourth quarter, and the Bears’ QB dived for the ball. Just then, Owens came in from the side and hit Fields’ face with his elbow. The hit made Justin Fields slam onto the floor with a massive force. However, the apparently strategic foul move went unpunished. Pro Football Network drew the NFL fans’ attention to the scuffle with a video on the X platform of the moment Jonathan Owens surged towards Fields to highlight the intensity of the attack.
Leaving the fans to decide for themselves, the American football authority captioned the video, “#Bears QB Justin Fields took a MASSIVE hit by #Packers DB Jonathan Owens during this slide but refs didn’t throw a flag. Should this have been a penalty?” The fans were appalled at the referee’s decision to let this unlawful hit slide.
One of the best comments that summed up the indignations was from Hannah, an NCAA gymnast who said, “Very very dirty play by Jonathan Owens. Have absolutely no idea how that wasn’t a flag”. In the aftermath of the assault, the NFL officials explained the reasoning for their call.
NFL officials explain controversial call
The Bears were undeniably furious when the officials did not brandish the red flag for the tackle to their quarterback. However, the officials explained that Jonathan Owens did not have sufficient time to avoid making contact with Fields. The game was halted while Justin Fields was checked for a concussion. Although he returned to the field, the player was visibly shaken up and could not commit to the game.
In the meantime, ESPN’s Tedy Bruschi has highlighted the trend in the NFL of overlooking rough playstyles when it concerns a quarterback. As this revelation spreads, this controversy is only going to get bigger.
