The NFL is following through on its promise to crack down on taunting, with the most obvious example coming in the Panthers-Colts game Sunday.
After finally getting onto the field during the fourth quarter, undrafted Indianapolis running back Benny LeMay was flagged for taunting after dragging a pile of Panthers players 14 yards past the line of scrimmage on a second-and-2.
The 5-foot-8 back stood up, looked down at one of the players he had just carried and let out an emphatic yell while flexing.
A 15-yard penalty was issued shortly thereafter.
Earlier this month, the NFL announced in its annual rule change and points of emphasis video that taunting will not be tolerated going forward. In the video, competition committee chairman Rich McKay mentioned ejections, fines and possible suspensions as repercussions for players who taunt.
“Game officials have been instructed to strictly enforce the taunting rules, and players and coaches are reminded that two taunting penalties committed by an individual player will result in automatic disqualification,” McKay said. “In addition, the taunting player may be fined and/or suspended depending on the severity of the actions.”