In the second quarter of Friday’s preseason game against the Detroit Lions, the New York Giants felt the impact of the new helmet rule for the first time. Linebacker Mark Herzlich received a highly questionable 15-yard penalty for “lowering his helmet to initiate contact,” negating a sack of Matt Cassel by Lorenzo Carter.
On replay, running back Theo Riddick of the Lions appeared to initiate the contact — in fact, seeming to launch himself into Herzlich.
Coach Pat Shurmur wasn’t happy, saying “I have a very strong opinion of that play,” and adding that the Giants would send it to the league for clarification.