Dennis Allen Responds to C.J. Gardner-Johnson: ‘We Play Hard, Not Cheap’

Emotions are hard to tame in a game of football and one such example came from Dennis Allen, coach of the New Orleans Saints. There is so much discontent about how the Saints played during the game and in its aftermath. Safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson accused the Saints of unsportsmanlike behavior, which he considered the “cheapest” play ever he had witnessed. The Saints coach, Dennis Allen, swiftly countered that his team plays hard but respects the game.

Understanding the Game

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It’s a very demanding game that requires a lot from the players. Football players need to be quite fast, strong, and smart too. In a recent matchup, the Saints were able to play their game with muscle. Players such as Paulson Adebo and Pete Werner showcased fantastic teamwork in wrapping up Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith. Aggressive play is all part of the game, but sometimes the line gets blurry about how far that plays hard and how far it becomes overly aggressive.

The Saints defense has been performing excellently this season. The players appear committed to putting it all in. However, incidents like those that occurred with Smith may attract criticism. When Smith was brought down and his helmet flew off, the question of player safety came up. According to Dennis Allen, they may be physical but that is to hurt.

During the game, Smith caught the ball but the tackle made on him created commotion. Khristian Boyd hit him high, and Smith was sent to concussion protocol. This drew wide attention, including that of Gardner-Johnson, who smokes in feelings of anger. This shows how soon one play can be interpreted entirely.

Referees and Penalties

Sports refereeing is tough for quick judgments on matters that happen. During the match, they did not penalize Boyd for his hit; however, that doesn’t mean it won’t have other repercussions. The league may screen the play and possibly fine Boyd. This brings into focus the point that even when a player does not get a penalty during the game, their action can still have ramifications afterward.

Dennis Allen spoke to the character of his team’s play in his commentary. He was a tell-it-like-it-is kind of guy, a real hard-hitting, physical player. “We do play hard, and we do play physical,” he added. Of course, that has numerous pluses: it puts pressure on the opponent. On the other hand, control is necessary not to lose track and end up committing penalties that can hurt the team.

Next, the Saints have to play smart, and that is for them to balance their aggressive style with caution. The fact of playing hard is essential; however, it is the difference made by smart playing that should make a difference within this game. Coaches and players should review their approach now and then to make sure they are not crossing those lines that bring injuries or penalties.

Conclusion

In a word, the Saints and Eagles game throws to light very important questions for football. Reaction from Dennis Allen points out that the club gave all that could be given to hard performance without losing the spirit of the game. From there, strictly competing hard should go along with respecting opponents and their players not to hurt them. The problem in this is with the balance that would define the future of the sport.

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Article originally written by Faria Malik