the issue I have is how he handles the actual hit, especially after the pitch. Hit the QB and take him to the ground as a clean tackle, no issue at all. We both agree that is how you defend the option. But the extra tossing of Retzlaff well after the pitch is what I have a problem with. after.

To me it is like what Coastal Carolina did to Zach on the interception to end the 1st half. Yes, the DE has the right to hit/block an opposing offensive player while the interception is being returned. But they way he and the other player did it to Zach was dirty and uncalled for. Maybe technically within the rules but is a dirty and underhanded way of playing. Another example, not of hitting, but being within the rules but a dirty way to play is how Utah does their defensive substitutions after the offense has a substitute. Technically legal to burn a ton of time and force the offense to either take a TO or get a delay of game, but it is generally understood that is an underhanded way to play and most teams do not do that.