“Cheap Blindside Hit”: NFL Fans React After Chiefs’ ‘Bullying’ Evidence Emerges
After the heated clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Detroit Lions, NFL fans have flooded social media with outrage, accusing the Chiefs of engaging in bullying tactics. The situation intensified when safety Brian Branch slapped wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, sparking a postgame melee.
Many supporters argue that Branch’s anger came from a “cheap blindside hit” delivered by Smith-Schuster earlier in the game — a move widely condemned as unsportsmanlike. The confrontation occurred following the Chiefs’ 30-17 win, with Branch allegedly retaliating after being provoked by Smith-Schuster’s rough play.
When Branch tried to confront Smith-Schuster, tensions boiled over, drawing in players from both sidelines. The incident stood out not only for its physicality but also for the growing animosity that had built up throughout the match.
Fans online have sharply criticized Kansas City’s behavior, calling it overly aggressive and antagonistic. Many see it as part of a larger pattern of poor sportsmanship within the NFL, urging stricter accountability for players and coaches. According to critics, the Chiefs’ dominance has fueled a cutthroat mentality that has alienated both rivals and supporters.
After the fracas, both coaches addressed the situation. Lions coach Dan Campbell denounced Branch’s slap but acknowledged the frustration behind it. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, however, minimized the event, noting that football should be “played between the whistles.”
The backlash intensified after footage showing Kansas City’s alleged bullying of Branch was posted online by Emmanuel Acho on X.
“Cheap blindside hit that had nothing to do with the play,” one fan commented. “That wasn’t a block in the back,” another added.
Another supporter remarked, “That’s football. Plenty of other times to hit JuJu. Once the game ends, it’s done.”
“I think it was unnecessary; the ball was on the other side,” another viewer said.
“I feel like Branch is just a Detroit Democrat snowflake,” one commenter wrote.
“Yeah, that would set off a lot of NFL players. Enough to start a fight even on a good day,” another user joked.
As the NFL reviews the altercation, Branch could face disciplinary action given his previous penalties. The fallout may push the league to reexamine its stance on player behavior and unnecessary hits.
Detroit Lions, Brian Branch, NFL
Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch practices at the Lions Training Facility in Allen Park on Sunday, July 23, 2023.
In the end, the aftermath of the Chiefs-Lions confrontation has reignited debates among fans and analysts about the true spirit of competition in the NFL. As emotions cool, both teams must reassess their actions and the broader consequences for their upcoming seasons.
Kansas City Chiefs, JuJu Smith-Schuster, NFL
Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) celebrates a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
