The Cincinnati Bengals dropped their third consecutive game on Sunday, losing 34-12 to the Pittsburgh Steelers to fall to 3-7 this season, effectively eliminating themselves from the AFC playoff picture.
Despite the loss, the story of the game came in the second half when Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and Steelers cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who had been going back and forth all game, were both flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct. Ramsey received a quick second penalty that led to his ejection after grabbing Chase’s facemask.
However, the incident had a deeper context. Chase was reportedly seen spitting on Ramsey — something the referees missed in real time but was captured on video after the game. Chase denied the allegations.
Video of the incident is below.
The NFL decided to investigate the situation, and on Monday, roughly 24 hours later, announced that Chase will face a one-game suspension for spitting on another player.
Chase received the same punishment that Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter received in Week 1 for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
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Shortly after the announcement, it was revealed that Chase plans to appeal the suspension. However, if the ruling stands, which would be surprising given the video evidence showing him spitting on Ramsey, Chase would forfeit a total of over $509,000.
Of that amount, $448,333 would come from his weekly game check, which he would lose, and he would also have to give up his $58,823 per-game active bonus, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
If Chase’s appeal is unsuccessful and he is forced to sit out this week, he will miss the Bengals’ home matchup against the New England Patriots (9-2) but would be able to return for their Thanksgiving Night game against the Baltimore Ravens.
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