James Harrison: Why Steelers LB Should, and Will, Appeal 1-Game Suspension

James Harrison's hit on Colt McCoy had the football world abuzz with the expectation of his punishment, and we now know that the Pittsburgh linebacker has been suspended for a game. Harrison will appeal that suspension. 

Harrison has three days to appeal the decision, and there is no reason he shouldn't at least try to get the sentence reduced to a fine.

While the hit on McCoy certainly warranted discipline, I did not think it was any more egregious than any other illegal hits on quarterbacks that I have seen this season. Harrison did lower his head a bit before making impact on the second year signal-caller, but I did not think he used his helmet to spear McCoy.

McCoy suffered a concussion on the play and appeared to be in bad shape afterwards. 

The real reason Harrison has been suspended for a game is because of his history. It was his fifth illegal hit against a quarterback in the past three seasons. In addition to those infractions, he has also been fined twice for unnecessary roughness over that same time period. 

On Monday Harrison claimed the hit wasn't worthy of a suspension or any action by the league. Had he been smart, he would have apologized for the play and said he hoped McCoy was alright. He didn't, and frankly, I think that's why he was suspended.

Harrison's case against the suspension should be that he is being punished for his history, not for this particular play. Again, the hit was worthy of a penalty and a fine, but I don't believe it warranted a suspension. 

It will be interesting to see what comes from this appeal, since I do believe Harrison has a case for a reduced penalty. However, more than likely the All-Pro linebacker will not be present when the Steelers face the San Francisco 49ers on Monday night.