Smith Fined For Hit on Manning

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y.--Buffalo Bills star defensive end Bruce Smith has been fined $7,500 by the NFL for a hit on Peyton Manning in last Sunday's game at Indianapolis.

The league fined Smith on Wednesday for the hit, which came on a first-down play in the second quarter as Manning was setting up to throw. Smith went around tackle Tarik Glenn and dived at Manning, colliding with the quarterback's legs near the left knee. Smith was assessed a 15-yard personal foul penalty.

Smith could not be reached for comment.

Colts coach Jim Mora said he did not believe Smith intentionally hit Manning around the knees.

"I know Bruce a little bit, and he's not a dirty player," Mora said. "He's a professional. I'm sure he didn't mean to do it. But just like anything, things happen.

"I'd bet a million dollars he didn't mean to do anything illegal."

Mora noted the NFL in recent years has imposed strict rules on protecting quarterbacks.

"A lot of the rule changes they've been emphasizing with players' safety in mind, which is good," Mora said.

"They beat us, and there's not much more to say about it," Manning said.