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Smith-Schuster, Iloka suspended 1 game for MNF hits

Aaron Doster / USA TODAY Sports

Pittsburgh Steelers receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster and Cincinnati Bengals safety George Iloka have each been suspended one game for violations of safety-related playing rules during Monday night's chippy game.

Both players are appealing their suspensions, reports ESPN's Adam Schefter, citing sources.

Smith-Schuster sent Bengals linebacker Vontaze Burfict off the field on a stretcher after delivering a helmet-to-helmet blindside block and then standing overtop of him.

The rookie apologized afterward for the hit and reaction postgame. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that he was more disturbed by the taunting than the hit itself. The NFL's statement made it clear that Smith-Schuster's taunting played into their decision.

After Smith-Schuster injured Burfict, Iloka appeared to respond by delivering a massive headshot to Antonio Brown in the end zone, though the Steelers receiver was able to hold onto the ball for a touchdown.

Smith-Schuster will miss the Steelers' game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, while the Bengals will face the Chicago Bears without Iloka.

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