The controversy surrounding safety Kerby Joseph, who came under fire this week for a low hit that caused tight end Tyler Higbee of the Los Angeles Rams to tear his ACL and MCL, was discussed by Lions head coach Dan Campbell.

Joseph’s helmet was lowered during the play, and it was launched into Higbee’s legs, bending his right knee in an odd way:

The hit sparked a firestorm of criticism from the Rams and other football luminaries, chief among them being quarterback Matthew Stafford.Stafford confronted Joseph right after the play, according to a video that was made public on Wednesday. He said, “You’re nasty as f*** and you know it… I have witnessed it on tape.”

Supporters brought up a number of dubious hits by Illinois-born second-year player Joseph. A comparable hit that had comparable outcomes was made against former Lion T.J. Hockenson of the Minnesota Vikings tight end position. Another contentious kind of hit on Rams rookie Puka Nacua was a hip-drop tackle. Joseph ran straight into Steve Avila, the offensive guard for the Rams.

Campbell praised Joseph’s style of play when questioned about his growing reputation and how he has mentored the young player:

Here, football is played in that manner. Just keep your head up, see what you hit. I’ll tell Kerby that every time. Just make sure not to hit your helmet’s crown by keeping your eyes up. You make a mess there, you hit a spine. See what you hit, please.

He is avoiding the head and aiming for the thigh board. Here, that’s how we approach defense. We’re not unclean. We made contact.”

As Joseph got closer to Higbee’s legs, it should be noticed that his helmet was completely pointing downward.

When the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play the Lions in the divisional round, it appears likely that their skill players will be extremely cautious. C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Detroit’s other starting safety, has already garnered attention for his derogatory remarks directed at Baker Mayfield of the Bucs. Mayfield responded by winning the game early.