Buffalo Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson was ejected during Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium after officials determined he had spit at an opposing player late in the first half.
Syracuse football plagued by second-half turnovers in home loss to Louisville (full coverage) The incident occurred with 15 seconds remaining in the second quarter following an incomplete pass from Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins intended for wide receiver Tre Tucker.
Buffalo safety Cole Bishop was initially penalized for defensive holding on the play. However, officials continued discussing the incident before announcing Gardner-Johnson’s disqualification.
CBS cameras initially captured Gardner-Johnson exchanging words with Raiders tight end Brock Bowers following the play. An official stepped between the players as tensions escalated.
Following a television timeout, another replay showed Gardner-Johnson spitting toward a Raiders player, providing additional clarity on the reason for his removal.
Bills head coach Joe Brady was also shown shaking his head following the announcement.
CBS rules analyst Gene Steratore supported the decision to eject Gardner-Johnson and indicated that the NFL could review the incident for potential additional disciplinary action.
The ejection forced Buffalo to finish the remainder of the contest without one of its starting defensive backs.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
