Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict may miss some of the 2016 season. ESPNs Adam Schefter reported on Facebook,
Bengals LB Vontaze Burfict is facing suspension for his hit on Antonio Brown during Saturday night’s wild-card game, per a source familiar with the situation. It’s even possible Burfict could be suspended for more than one game, per the source. The NFL already fined Burfict $69,454 last month for his combination of plays against Pittsburgh. As a repeat offender, Burfict now is expected to be suspended.
The personal foul came late in the 4th quarter, when Burfict hit Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown in the head. Cincinnati lost the game 18-16. The penalty was one of two that helped Pittsburgh kick a game-winning field goal.
Reports are also coming out that Pittsburgh assistant coach Joey Porter will be fine for his action during Saturday’s wild-card game. Porter, will be fined for coming on to field and engaging with Bengal’s players. Bengals cornerback Adam Jones received a 15-yard penalty after engaging with porter.
Steelers assistant coach Joey Porter will be fined for coming on to field Saturday night and engaging Bengals players, per a source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 10, 2016
Jones took to instagram after the game to verbally attack the referee’s decision. The post has since been removed.
The back-to-back penalties of Burfict and Jones set up a Chris Boswell game-winning field goal.
Steelers assistant coach Mike Munchak was flagged, for pulling on Bengals safety Reggie Nelson’s hair as he ran out of bounds during the first half.
It has also been reported that Burfict had to be restrained by head coach Marvin Lewis after the game was over. The linebacker was gesturing toward the referee.
The Bengals have lost an opening-round playoff game for five consecutive seasons. No other team has done it more than three times in a row.
