 Markbreit explained what happened next,

As Markbreit walked to the Packers sideline and told coach Forrest Gregg "This man is ejected from the game," Bears coach Mike Ditka ran out onto the field demanding an explanation for two flags having been thrown.The officials decided to pick up the flag for Covert's late hit and penalize only Martin and the Packers, given the egregiousness of the hit.Markbreit said, in a 2012 interview, "it was the most violent act of its day."