3 players fined in Cardinals' win over Cowboys

The NFL faced criticism for its enforcement of helmet-related infractions during Week 8, as evidenced by seven players receiving fines for those violations despite not being penalized during the games. Historically, there have been 46 such fines across eight weeks, with only 10 instances actually called on the field. In Sunday's matchup between the Arizona Cardinals and Dallas Cowboys, two of those fines were handed out to Cowboys players.

The first incident occurred in the first half with 21 seconds left. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett connected with running back Bam Knight on a successful play, but Cowboys linebacker DeMarvion Overshown made contact with Knight's head using his helmet. The tackle resulted in a fumble recovered by Cowboys defensive lineman L.T. Overton, who led Dallas to a 14-3 lead at the half. Knight suffered a concussion and will miss the upcoming game against the Seahawks.

The second helmet hit had a more significant consequence for Cowboys safety P.J. Locke. During overtime, with the Cardinals having a first down at the Dallas 31-yard line, Locke was in on the tackle that knocked him out of the game. After two more plays, kicker Chad Ryland scored the winning field goal. However, if Locke's hit had been called, the ball would have moved to the 14-yard line, potentially making the kick more challenging.

Locke was fined $19,444 for his actions. Despite missing Wednesday's practice, Locke practiced on Thursday and Friday, and is expected to play against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

Two other fines were issued during the game, one to Dallas defensive lineman Rashan Gary and one to Arizona defensive lineman L.J. Collier. Gary was fined $17,911 for a fourth-quarter play that helped the Cardinals, while Collier received an $8,972 fine for a late hit on Cowboys tackle Tyler Guyton with 8:18 left in the game.