Riders’ Aubrey Miller Jr., Elks’ Nick Anderson fined for spearing in Labour Day weekend action

Photo courtesy: Saskatchewan Roughriders.

The Canadian Football League has fined two players for spearing over Labour Day weekend.

Saskatchewan linebacker Aubrey Miller Jr. was disciplined for a hit on Winnipeg receiver Tim White in the 61st Labour Day Classic.  No penalty was assessed on the play.

Miller, who was starting in place of the injured Josh Woods, made two defensive tackles, a special teams tackle, a sack, and a pass breakup in the game, while White caught seven passes for 63 yards. The Riders defeated the Bombers 32-26 in overtime.

Edmonton linebacker Nick Anderson was also punished for a hit against Calgary quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. The blow was delivered as Adams slid for a 10-yard gain late in the first quarter and drew a roughing the passer penalty.

Adams was making his return to the lineup after missing the previous game with a concussion, but was able to continue after the hit. He finished 15-of-29 passing for 214 yards and two touchdowns, while rushing for 33 yards. Anderson recorded a game-high 12 tackles, one sack, and two pass breakups, as the Elks defeated the Stampeders 38-28 in the Battle of Alberta.

The CFL’s department of health, safety, and integrity manages league discipline involving fines. The committee includes chief football officer Greg Dick, vice-president of officiating Darren Hackwood, associate vice-president of football operations Ryan Janzen, and associate vice-president of health and safety Eric Noivo.

As per league policy, the league does not announce the dollar amount of fines, discipline related to dress code violations, discipline involving teams or staff, or discipline involving players who have been released. The maximum allowable fine under the collective bargaining agreement is half the value of a game cheque.

Both the Riders and Elks will play rematches against their Week 14 opponents on Saturday, September 12.