Detroit Lions' Nick Fairley proud of reputation

Detroit Lions defensive tackle Nick Fairley has revealed that he takes "pride" in being refereed to as part of the "dirty duo" along with teammate Ndamukong Suh.

The pair have been criticised for their style of play this season as both have received hefty fines throughout the campaign for their hits on opposition players.

"You got to take pride in it," Fairley told reporters. "It's down and dirty in the trenches.

"We know that. When you put your hand down in the dirt, you just got to pin your ears back and go."

The Lions face the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.