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THE GRIDIRON — Research shows that NFL linemen can hit with up to 8.4 tons of force. So, those who play on the offensive and defensive line are basically getting into the equivalent of multiple car crashes each game.
As you can imagine, that level of abuse takes its toll. But with most of the injuries internal, it's not often that the agony is on full display. Which makes this video of Vita Vea so unusual.
Vita Vea LOST A TOOTH 🦷 pic.twitter.com/Dfc1AxPTSJ
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) November 28, 2021
The Buccaneers nose tackle, known for delivering his own massive collisions, was on the receiving of a brutal hit from Colts guard Mark Glowinski. The problems began when Vea's helmet came loose, leaving the chinstrap covering his face like a bizarre clown nose.
With his face exposed, Vea took the full fury of Glowinski's helmet right in the mouth. And you can probably guess what happened — one of his teeth popped out.
Vea took it all in stride. Not only did he flash a bloody smile as he came off the field, but he also finished out the game. The Buccaneers went on to win 38-31.
What's the moral of this story? Don't play in the NFL if you're attached to your teeth.
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