Lions' Dominic Raiola suspended one game for leg stomp

Allen Park, MI (SportsNetwork.com) - The NFL suspended Detroit Lions center Dominic Raiola one game without pay for stomping on Chicago Bears defensive lineman Ego Ferguson's leg in Sunday's game.

Raiola violated Rule 12, Section 2, Article 12 (b) of the NFL Rule Book prohibiting "kicking or kneeing an opponent." The incident took place in the third quarter of Detroit's 20-14 win.

Raiola said after the game he didn't intentionally step on Ferguson's ankle and apologized to him after the game.

"Obviously, I took a good look at it," Lions coach Jim Caldwell said Monday before any suspension had been levied by the league. "I looked at both the coaches copy and also the television copy as well. I believe what Dom told me, that it was inadvertent, but I could also see why it's obviously being reviewed by the league and everybody is taking a real good look at it."

This is Raiola's sixth safety-related rules violation since 2010. He was fined $10,000 earlier this year for striking a New England player in the back of the helmet in the final minute of a Nov. 23 game.

Raiola must stay away from the team during his suspension. He will be reinstated on Dec. 29.

The suspension may be appealed within three business days. Appeals are heard and decided by either Derrick Brooks or Ted Cottrell. Raiola is expected to appeal the suspension.

The Lions play at the Packers on Sunday in a winner-take-all game for the NFC North title. Rookie Travis Swanson will likely start in Raiola's place.