PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Hines Ward has lashed out at the NFL for what he calls its hypocritical stance on many issues, including player safety.
He says the league suddenly is emphasizing player safety only because it wants to expand to an 18-game season.
Ward predicted Wednesday that a team will lose a game -- possibly in the playoffs -- because an official will make an incorrect call simply because he fears being disciplined by the league if he doesn't throw a flag.
Ward said there is considerable confusion around the league because players no longer know what hit is legal and what isn't. He also said the Steelers won't change their playing style to adopt to the ever-shifting rules, even if they keep getting fined.
Hines Ward of Pittsburgh Steelers calls out at NFL over safety - ESPN
I tend to agree with him..a team is gonna pay a heavy price for a ref being scared of reprimand for a no call.