NFL Refs Enforce Stricter Taunting Rules During Panthers-Colts Preseason Game And Fans Were Furious

The NFL’s enforcement of taunting penalties seems like it could be a big issue with fans this season.

Last week, the league released a memo stating that enforcing taunting penalties was going to be a a point of emphasis this season after several coaches complained about players excessively taunting last year during meetings with the competition committee this offseason.

“The NFL Players Association, coaches and competition committee have all made a strong statement regarding respect among everyone on the field,” “We saw an increase in actions that clearly are not within the spirit and intent of this rule and not representative of the respect due opponents and others on the field. Game officials have been instructed to strictly enforce the taunting rules, and players and coaches are reminded that two taunting penalties committed by an individual player will result in automatic disqualification. In addition, the taunting player may be fined and/or suspended depending on the severity of the actions.”

On Sunday, we got a glimpse of what may come this season and it’s not pretty. In the third quarter of the Colts-Panthers preseason game, backup running back Benny LeMay was able to push the pile and pick up a first down. After the run, LeMay appeared to say something to the defender who tackled him while tossing the ball to the ref and was immediately penalized on the play.

Fans were not happy with the penalty call and blasted the NFL over the new taunting rules.