If it was directly in front of you then you had the worst possible vantage point. On TV it was clear as day that his elbow was way too high and went right to the back of the guys neck. I'm sure it didn't feel too great.
A hit to the head/neck area in any sport these days is a huge deal. Tackling someone isn't on the same level. It's about safety and the players wellbeing in the future.
Last team at Central with decent talent was 2009. There has been a lot of undeveloped/uncommitted talent to go through that program..... need to develop the kids and give them something to commit to. Berg was great at getting kids committed.