Suh suspended 2 games, files appeal

NEW YORK, Nov. 29 (UPI) -- Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh Tuesday appealed his two-game suspension for stomping on the arm of an opponent.

The NFL suspended the lineman for his actions in Thursday's game against Green Bay. Suh, who has been disciplined and fined by the NFL multiple times for on-field violations, was flagged for pushing Packers' offensive lineman Evan Dietrich-Smith head to the ground and stomping his right arm.

"NFL Vice President of Football Operations Merton Hanks notified Ndamukong Suh today (Tuesday) that he has been suspended without pay for the Lions' next two games for his unsportsmanlike conduct in the Lions-Packers game on Thanksgiving Day," the league said in a statement. "It was Suh's fifth violation of on-field rules in the past two seasons that has resulted in league discipline. Suh may not practice or be at the team practice facility for any other activities during the two-game suspension.

"He will be reinstated on Dec. 12."

The NFL later said Suh has appealed the decision and is a hearing will be scheduled. The Lions issued a statement saying the team respects the league's decision.

The player said after the incident he never intended to hurt anyone and apologized Friday, calling his behavior "unacceptable." Suh was fined $20,000 this year for a pre-season hit against Cincinnati quarterback Andy Dalton and was fined twice last year.

Suh will miss the New Orleans and Minnesota contests, returning Dec. 18 against Oakland.

The 7-4 Lions are battling for a wild-card berth in the NFC.