49ers DT Quinton Dial fined $16,537 for roughing the passer

The San Francisco 49ers took off for Arizona Friday afternoon, and before they left, players passed along news of fines received for the previous Sunday. Defensive tackle Quinton Dial was fined $16,537 for his roughing the passer penalty on Bears quarterback Jay Cutler. Additionally, L.J. McCray was fined $8,268 for his unnecessary roughness penalty, and Colin Kaepernick was fined $11,025 for inappropriate language.

Dial's penalty came on this roughing play.

I'd imagine even ten years ago this was probably not a penalty, but the crown of the helmet rule is a pretty established rule at this point. It was a great hit, but it seems like the proper technique to avoid a penalty would have been leading with the shoulder instead of the head.

I've never played organized football, so those who have are more than welcome to correct me on whether it is a simple adjustment or not. But it seems to me like leading with the shoulder would also be safer in terms of avoiding any sort of neck sprain on this play.

Speaking of Dial, it is my understanding that he will once again be active this Sunday. He got in three defensive snaps and five special teams snaps in Week 2. The hit on Cutler was only one play, but after a strong preseason, I was really hoping to see Dial and Tank Carradine get some opportunities in the regular season. I've heard there is a decent chance Tank will be inactive and Demarcus Dobbs will be active once again. I haven't gotten final confirmation on that latter bit.