Last night, the Steelers and Bengals apparently played football; at least, that’s what the NFL wants to call it. While they were on the field for a sport, it certainly had the look of a gladiatorial fight, with multiple players suffering injuries. One play in particular has been looked over, and it may end up with a suspension, according to Mike Garafolo:
The NFL is strongly weighing a one-game suspension for Steelers WR Juju Smith-Schuster for his hit on Vontaze Burfict, sources say. Those involved are expecting that to wind up being the case.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) December 5, 2017
If this suspension does occur, this means the Steelers will not have the rookie star on the field against the Baltimore Ravens. Here is a video of the hit.
(video credit to reddit.com/u/HerbalDreamin)
Many are arguing over the legality of the block by Juju Smith-Schuster, whether he was launching himself shoulder or helmet first, and if he hit with his shoulder into Bengals’ linebacker Vontaze Burfict’s chest, neck or helmet. Either way, the NFL is debating a suspension, which may help the Baltimore Ravens. This comes at a huge time, as Baltimore just lost their star cornerback, Jimmy Smith, to a season-ending Achilles tear.
Update: Steelers WR JuJu Smith-Schuster and Bengals S George Iloka have both been suspended for one game.
JuJu Smith-Schuster & George Iloka have each been suspended 1 game for violations of safety-related playing rules. pic.twitter.com/OyDq7Ca4jy
— Michael Signora (@NFLfootballinfo) December 5, 2017