New Orleans Saints coach Dennis Allen is pushing back against accusations that defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd intentionally tried to injure Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert in their recent game. The controversial play resulted in penalties for both teams and has ignited a fierce debate among fans and analysts about player safety and sportsmanship on the field.
A Controversial Tackle Sparks On-Field Clash
The incident began when Shepherd tackled a standing Herbert just after he had thrown a pass. Shepherd grabbed Herbert by his right ankle, twisting it awkwardly as he brought the quarterback to the ground. The play immediately drew a reaction from Chargers’ center Bradley Bozeman, who rushed in to shove Shepherd off his quarterback.
Bozeman called the tackle “one of the dirtier plays” he has ever seen, explaining his response was purely to protect Herbert. The confrontation grew so intense that an official had to step in and physically separate the two linemen. Both Shepherd and Bozeman were flagged for their actions in the heated exchange.
The Saints coaching staff and players argue that the tackle was a standard football play that unfortunately looked bad, not a malicious attempt to injure.
Saints Circle the Wagons in Defense of Shepherd
In a press conference, Coach Dennis Allen firmly defended his player’s actions. “I don’t agree with the claims at all,” Allen stated, insisting that Shepherd was simply “trying to bring the quarterback down to the ground.” He pointed out that in the speed of the game, it’s difficult for a defensive lineman to know the exact moment the ball is released.
Shepherd’s teammate, Khalen Saunders, also took to social media to support him. In a reply to criticism, Saunders argued that Shepherd made contact with Herbert just as the ball left his hand, making it an instinctive reaction rather than a premeditated act. The Saints organization has presented a united front, dismissing the incident as a byproduct of high-stakes football.
Chargers Rally Behind Herbert and His Protector
The Los Angeles Chargers had a very different view of the situation. Coach Jim Harbaugh praised Bradley Bozeman’s quick and protective response, even awarding him a game ball for his loyalty. Harbaugh called Bozeman a leader and emphasized that his actions represent the kind of protection every quarterback should have.
This recognition was especially meaningful given Herbert’s history with a right ankle sprain this season. Herbert expressed his gratitude, saying, “There’s no better feeling than having a guy like that defending you.”
- Immediate Defense: Bozeman did not hesitate to physically intervene, pushing Shepherd away from Herbert.
- Coach’s Recognition: Harbaugh’s decision to award Bozeman a game ball publicly validated his actions.
- Team Unity: The event served as a rallying point for the Chargers, reinforcing their commitment to protecting their star quarterback.
A Pattern of Aggressive Play for the Saints?
This is not the first time this season that the Saints’ defense has been accused of overly aggressive play. The incident with Shepherd adds to a growing narrative that has put the team’s discipline under a microscope.
Earlier in the season, Saints rookie Khristian Boyd was fined $4,600 for a hit that put Philadelphia Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith in concussion protocol. While Coach Allen has denied any malicious intent in either case, the back-to-back controversies raise questions about the team’s on-field tactics. The scrutiny comes at a difficult time for the Saints, who are currently on a six-game losing streak.
| Player | Team | Incident | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nathan Shepherd | Saints | Ankle tackle on Justin Herbert | Unnecessary Roughness Penalty |
| Bradley Bozeman | Chargers | Retaliation against Shepherd | Unsportsmanlike Conduct Penalty |
| Khristian Boyd | Saints | Hit on DeVonta Smith | Penalty and $4,600 Fine |
The Saints’ struggles are compounded by a growing list of injuries to key players. Quarterback Derek Carr has been out for three games, and the team is also missing receiver Bub Means, cornerback Marshon Lattimore, and running back Kendre Miller. These challenges, combined with the recent accusations, leave the Saints fighting battles both on and off the field as they try to end their losing streak.
