NFL star BANNED after smacking rival in the groin in ugly scenes at the end of Monday Night Football

Carolina Panthers safety Tre'von Moehrig has been suspended for one game after he hit San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings in the groin.

The incident occurred during Monday Night Football - where multiple camera angles showed Moehrig winding up and punching his rival between the legs.

At the end of the game, an incensed Jennings approached Moehrig and smacked him in the helmet before being shoved away.

After that smack was shown, ESPN found video of Moehrig's needless punch below the belt.

In a press release announcing the suspension, the NFL says Moehrig's punishment was for 'unsportsmanlike conduct'.

Specifically, the league said his punch violated, 'Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, which applies to “any act which is contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship,” including, among others, “throwing a punch, or a forearm, or kicking at an opponent.”'

Moehrig is set to return to the Panthers' roster on December 1 after the team plays against the Los Angeles Rams. 

The league's Collective Bargaining Agreement allows Moehrig to appeal the decision - which would be heard by one of three former players: Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, or Jordy Nelson.

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