Why is Robert Griffin III launching himself into the air and getting helicoptered? (VIDEO)

Watch Robert Griffin III helicopter through the air and convert a crucial fourth-down late in the Washington Redskins' 21-13 loss to the Carolina Panthers and then join us below for discussion on the controversial play:

After converting the first down, RGIII was instantly criticized for launching himself at defenders and risking injury. Many observers on Twitter were ripping RGIII's reckless decision, even though it was successful and kept alive the Redskins drive and chances (however slim) for a season-saving victory.

What?

This wasn't a second-down play in a scoreless first quarter, it was a fourth-down conversion that temporarily kept the Redskins chances alive. It worked. He got the first down. That's what matters. This is why the Redskins traded away their next two drafts for RGIII. This is why he won the Heisman and has already been proclaimed the most important Redskins player since Sammy Baugh. This is what makes him RGIII. If he isn't going all out on fourth down plays in the fourth quarter then what is it all for?

Maybe RGIII shouldn't run at all. Football is dangerous. He can get hurt on any play. Just take a knee anytime the pocket collapses. That way he can play football until he's in his mid-50s! Come on, people. Don't be that guy who buys a Ferrari then refuses to take it out of the garage.

When Aaron Rodgers stands tall in the pocket, waits until the last instant to get rid of a pass and takes a crushing hit in the process, we praise his presence. When John Elway helicopters into the end zone in the Super Bowl; well, that's the Super Bowl and you're supposed to lay it all out in the biggest game of the year. If Adrian Peterson did the same exact thing, folks would be marveling at his athleticism.

So RGIII treats a Week 9 game like it's the Super Bowl? If that's the biggest criticism of him, he'll be fine.

This is not to say there aren't valid points to be made about the wisdom of diving headfirst into three defenders. It was the equivalent of a baseball speedster sliding headfirst into first base, only Prince Fielder is also wearing a helmet and waiting to decapitate. RGIII can't expose himself to hits like that on a frequent basis if he wants to have a lengthy career.

But there are times and places where it's acceptable. Running with a clear shot to the sideline isn't one of them. Going for a fourth down conversion in the middle of the field in the fourth quarter is.

Yes, he needs to learn that an effective quarterback slide after a run is like playing with house money. Defenders can't hit you, lest they get a 15-yard penalty. And officials always -- ALWAYS -- spot the ball at least a half-yard farther than they should. But those are the lessons that come later.

For now, love the moxie. Love the effort. Love the player. And remember: Nobody ever says an NFL bust cares too much about winning.