The Carolina Panthers suffered a devastating loss on Monday Night Football. Carolina fell 20-9 in what could have been a statement game against San Francisco. To make matters worse, they will be without one defensive player next week after his postgame antics.
Panthers safety Tre'von Moehrig has been suspended without pay for one game after his act of unsportsmanlike conduct on Monday vs. the 49ers, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
The suspension stems from Moehrig's low blow against 49ers WR Jauan Jennings after the conclusion of Monday Night Football.
Moehrig has the right to appeal his suspension. Meanwhile, Jennings will be evaluated for a potential fine.
Just from a football angle, it is easy to understand why Moehrig was so frustrated after Monday's defeat. The Panthers' defense forced three interceptions from 49ers QB Brock Purdy, but squandered those opportunities.
It is easy for Panthers fans to imagine what could have been following an ugly game, in more ways than one, against the 49ers.
Panthers' Tre'von Moehrig was ready for punishment after Jauan Jennings incident
This news may not be a big surprise for Moehrig himself.
The veteran safety was asked about the incident after the game and explained why he did what he did.
“He was just doing some extra stuff after the play,” Moehrig said, per ESPN. “I'll take that one. It wasn't just frustration. It was isolated.”
His final statement implies that he expected either to be fined or suspended for his conduct.
But Panthers head coach Dave Canales is unlikely to be pleased by Moehrig's rationale. The head coach promised he would look into the matter and have a conversation with his player following Monday Night Football.
“I'll get to the bottom of that,” Canales said. “I want to see exactly what happened. I haven't had the chance to talk to Tre about that yet. That'll be a conversation.”
Now Carolina is 6-6 and in a close race with Tampa Bay (6-5) for the NFC South division title.
Next up for the Panthers is a Week 13 showdown with the Rams.
