The Streak of Hines

Pittsburgh Steelers WR Hines Ward is upset with the new NFL concussion policy. Hines was removed from the game against the Pats in the first quarter after suffering a helmet to helmet hit. He caught a pass, but the call was overturned after a challenge by Coach Belichick.

As Hines staggered off the field, he was examined by a neurologist on the sideline who ruled him out for the rest of the game. Under the league's new concussion policy, Hines was examined by an independent neurologist rather than one from the team. In the past, many players have returned to action after "getting their bell rung". Hines felt that it should have been his decision whether to continue playing.

As a result, Hines had his streak of 186 game ended in which he had caught a pass. It began on November 9, 1998 against Green Bay and continued until this past Sunday night. His was the third longest behind Jerry Rice (275 ) and Marvin Harrison (190). Tong Gonzalez now has the longest streak at 155.

Hines was very upset over the whole process. He is known as a tenacious blocker who is not afraid to crush a safety or any other defender.

He has 925 career receptions for 11,322 yards. It has not been decided whether he will be cleared to play this Sunday against the Oakland Raiders.