Fact: The NFL is ever vigilant on protecting quarterbacks.

Theory: The Detroit Lions reputation as a dirty team precedes them.

Fact: This hit, by Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley, was flagged for roughing the passer. He hits Buccaneers quarterback Mike Glennon in the thigh. The automatic first down prevented a Bucs punt and eventually led to a field goal. That field goal would prove to be the decisive score, as the Bucs would go on to win the game, 24-21.

Point of contact on Fairley’s roughing the passer? Upper thigh. We’re not even watching football anymore. pic.twitter.com/74ERuPkAOw — World of Isaac (@WorldofIsaac) November 24, 2013

Theory: Other defenders may have been called for same penalty, but players like Fairley and Suh won’t get the benefit of the doubt.

Fact: The NFL rulebook reads:

A rushing defender is prohibited from forcibly hitting in the knee area or below a passer who has one or both feet on the ground, even if the initial contact is above the knee.

Theory Fact: This is getting ridiculous.

See other photos from around the league in Week 12