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NFL hits Ravens quartet with fines

The NFL fined Bart Scott and three of his Baltimore Ravens teammates on Friday after they denounced the officiating in a tense loss to New England on Monday.

Scott drew the heftiest fine -- US$25,000 for verbally abusing officials and throwing a penalty flag into the stands.

Samari Rolle, Chris McAlister and Derrick Mason all were fined US$15,000 for questioning the integrity of the officiating following the contest, which New England won 27-24 to remain undefeated this season.

"This is about the importance of sportsmanship and respecting the integrity of our game," said Ray Anderson, NFL executive vice president of football operations. We do not tolerate inappropriate conduct between teams and game officials.

"This includes reminding game officials that they are to conduct themselves at all times as professionals in their dealings with players, coaches, and other club personnel," Anderson said.

The Ravens were angered by a defensive holding call late in the fourth quarter that proved crucial, and several Baltimore players argued with the officials down the stretch.

"As I said earlier this week, our actions were not appropriate near the end of our game against the Patriots," Ravens coach Brian Billick said.

"We, our players and coaches, understand and accept the fines levied by Commissioner Goodell. We believe in the integrity of NFL officials and don't believe they, in any way, favored the Patriots with their calls," he said.

After New England quarterback Tom Brady connected with an eight-yard scoring pass to Jabar Gaffney with 44 seconds to play, Scott threw a penalty flag into the stands behind the goalpost and had to be restrained by teammates.
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