CFL suspends Riders’ DL Garrett Marino for four games due to illegal hits, racial comments

Photo courtesy: CFL

Saskatchewan Roughriders’ defensive lineman Garrett Marino has been suspended for a total of four games by the CFL following a three-day investigation into his ejection from Saturday’s game against the Ottawa Redblacks.

The league announced three separate suspensions outlined by the following criteria.

  • A two-game suspension for Marino’s dangerous and reckless low hit on Ottawa quarterback Jeremiah Masoli on play No. 123, which resulted in serious injury and Marino’s ejection from the game, and for Marino’s subsequent celebration;
  • A one-game suspension for verbal comments Marino made about Masoli’s heritage during the game, which clearly violates our Code of Conduct.
  • A one-game suspension for Marino’s illegal and reckless tackle of an Ottawa offensive lineman on a previous play.

The league claims this is the most severe total discipline it has ever imposed for in-game behaviour during a single contest. The three separate suspensions will run consecutively.

Barring an appeal, Marino will next be eligible to play on August 19 when the Riders host the B.C. Lions in Week 11.

The league also cited Marino’s discipline record after 12 CFL career games, which includes a previous ejection and two fines for his manner of play.

“This behaviour has no place in our league,” said league commissioner Randy Ambrosie in a statement. “This discipline is intended to send a strong message that it will not be tolerated.”