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Chiefs safety Husain Abdullah wrongfully penalized for post-TD prayer

The NFL, which has had a string of public embarrassments, quickly condemned the referee who penalized Abdullah for ignoring the unsportsmanlike conduct exemption for religious prayer.

By Aileen Graef
Kansas City Chiefs' Quintin Demps and Husain Abdullah break up a pass intended for Philadelphia Eagles' Jason Avant in the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on September 19, 2013. UPI/Laurence Kesterson
Kansas City Chiefs' Quintin Demps and Husain Abdullah break up a pass intended for Philadelphia Eagles' Jason Avant in the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on September 19, 2013. UPI/Laurence Kesterson | License Photo

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Sept. 30 (UPI) -- Kansas City Chiefs safety Husain Abdullah received a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after dropping to his knees in prayer post-touchdown.

The NFL rules dictate that dropping to one's knees after a touchdown counts as unsportsmanlike celebration but with the one exemption of kneeling in prayer.

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Abdullah is a vocal Muslim and it was clear he was practicing the Sajdah, a religious prayer, after his touchdown against the New England Patriots.

Abdullah is not the only football player known to pray mid-game. Tim Tebow, a devout Christian, became known for his prayer during games and the move was even dubbed "Tebowing." Far from being penalized, the act became somewhat of a sensation in 2011.

The NFL, which has been facing intense scrutiny over their response to social problems, quickly condemned the flag and clarified the rule. NFL vice president of football communications Michael Signora tweeted the league's stance on the matter Tuesday morning.

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