The NFL decided not to fine Pittsburgh Steelers offensive guard Mason McCormick following his body-slam tackle on Cleveland Browns defensive end Jared Verse during their Week 8 matchup.
The Incident and Penalty
The play occurred right after an extra-point attempt in the Steelers’ 27-6 victory, when McCormick caught Verse in mid-air and drove him hard into the turf. Officials penalized the offensive lineman 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Verse expressed clear frustration after the final whistle regarding the takedown, while also criticizing his own teammates for failing to stand up for him. However, his post-match complaints failed to prompt disciplinary action from league officials.
Pre-Game Comments and Week 8 Fines
Prior to the kickoff, Verse spoke openly about the matchup, stating he felt unconcerned about the opposing offensive line and claiming the Browns intended to claim ownership of Pittsburgh. The defender is 26 years old.
Across the league, the NFL handed out 31 fines for Week 8, marking the second-highest weekly total of the current season. Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker received a $17,911 penalty for delivering a blow to the head of Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson. Meanwhile, Cleveland players Tyson Campbell, Quinshon Judkins, and Sam Williams each faced fines for unnecessary roughness or unsportsmanlike conduct.
AFC North Standings
Before this contest, the Browns held the top spot in the AFC North division via tiebreakers. Following the defeat, Cleveland fell to third place in the standings.
The Steelers improved to a 6-2 record to claim the division’s top position, successfully avenging a 27-24 defeat they suffered against the same opponent back in Week 4.
