New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo drew a controversial unnecessary roughness penalty in the first quarter of the Week 7 game against the Houston Texans. Officials flagged Skattebo for lowering his helmet against a defender, marking just the fourth such call this season and the first against an offensive player on a non-special teams play.
The call sparked strong reactions from former NFL players Jason and Travis Kelce on their "New Heights" podcast. Travis Kelce dismissed the penalty, saying "That's football." Jason Kelce was more vehement, arguing that if a running back hits a defender with the crown of his helmet and the defender gets run over, it's the defender's fault. He called the penalty "dumbass" and said the runner should be able to lower his shoulder and gain yardage however he wants.
The 15-yard penalty did not hurt the Giants, who went on to defeat the Texans in overtime. Skattebo said he will not change his running style, even if it draws more penalties or fines. Jason Kelce added that Skattebo simply ran over the defender, and the league's potential fine would be "the dumbest thing I've ever seen."
Giants coach John Harbaugh defended Skattebo, stating it would be a "physical impossibility" for a back like him to avoid lowering his head when carrying the ball low. Harbaugh praised Skattebo's fundamentals. Travis Kelce echoed that sentiment, questioning how a runner can keep his head up while trying to lower his pads and accelerate.
Despite the penalty, Skattebo delivered the best performance of his career, rushing for a personal-best 124 yards and a touchdown. He also set up the game-winning play in overtime with a 42-yard run.
