Will the NFL Protect Its Image or Its Integrity? The McCaffrey Decision Could Tell Us Everything.QQ
David Gonzales-Imagn Images
Key Points:
- San Francisco 49ers RB Christian McCaffrey had a standout game, totaling 173 yards and two touchdowns.
- Dane Belton was penalized 15 yards for tripping McCaffrey, possibly facing a fine.
- The NFL will review the incident and announce any fine the following Saturday.
Christian McCaffrey had one of his best games of the season on Sunday as he helped lead the San Francisco 49ers to a 34-24 win over the New York Giants. McCaffrey had a season-high 28 carries in the game for 106 yards and one rushing touchdown. The two-time All-Pro running back also caught five passes from quarterback Mac Jones for 67 receiving yards and one TD.
McCaffrey was involved in an incident in the fourth quarter that resulted in a 15-yard penalty. Giants defensive back Dane Belton was flagged for a personal foul on McCaffrey, which will likely lead to a punishment from the NFL.
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey in September 2025Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Belton is currently in his fourth season with the Giants. He’s played all nine games for New York this season, registering 58 combined tackles (25 solo), two pass defenses and one forced fumble.
The fourth-year safety, however, is now facing a potential fine for his actions in Sunday’s loss. The incident came at the 6:11 mark of the fourth quarter. As McCaffrey charged through the middle, the Niners star was stopped by Giants linebacker Bobby Okereke for a four-yard gain. Belton was flagged for an infraction after he extended his leg as McCaffrey was going down.
The game official caught the play and immediately threw a flag for tripping, resulting in a 15-yard penalty in favor of San Francisco.
