Article - Steelers are kings of the cheap shot

when the player isn't defenseless helmet to helmet has always been legal.

mcgahee was not a defenseless receiver at the point of the hit, he was a ball carrier.

this is a defenseless player


not this

Karma is a botch.

Helmet to helmet is illegal regardless now, I'm pretty sure. Defenders get flagged for leading with their head all the time- even when the receiver isn't defenseless.

The helmet-to-helmet rule reads as follows:

"Using any part of a player’s helmet (including the top/crown and forehead/hairline parts) or facemask to butt, spear, or ram an opponent violently or unnecessarily; although such violent or unnecessary use of the helmet is impermissible against any opponent, game officials will give special attention in administering this rule to protect those players who are in virtually defenseless postures.”

There ya go.

except clark didn't lead with his helmet, he led with his shoulder. watch the clip. mcgahee dropped his shoulder bracing for contact and their helmets collided.