Rico Dowdle, the running back for the Carolina Panthers, has gotten some buzz for his enjoyable celebration after scoring a TD. In response, the NFL has issued an unprecedented fine of $14,491 to Stills. Increased ease of sharing bad news The announcement of the fine was made by Dowdle’s agent, David Canter, who reported it on social media. That creative celebration caused some outrage with its two perfectly timed pelvic thrusts – a nod to what was then-viral 2013 “Key & Peele” substitute teacher comedy sketch.
The troubling incident took place during the third quarter of the Cowboys game against the Chargers as Dowdle was scoring on a touchdown run. He finished the two perfectly with style, cheekily acknowledging the sketch’s no threes rule with a penalty kick. His teammates instantly mobbed him, erupting into celebration. The excessive jubilation resulted in a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty to be assessed on the ensuing kickoff against the team. As a result, the Panthers went for an additional point and missed it.
Though the penalty led to his $6,000 fine, the other members of Dowdle’s team who participated in the celebration did not receive any fines for their contributions. Dowdle expressed his disbelief at the penalty, stating, “Key said I got three pumps but I guess the NFL disagrees.”
Dowdle has launched his own GoFundMe campaign to help pay his fine. He emphasized that “actually, 100% of what is raised through this fundraiser will be sent to 56-Children’s Home Society of North Carolina,” indicating his desire to turn an unfortunate situation into a positive contribution.
Keegan-Michael Key, co-writer of the original sketch that inspired Dowdle’s celebration, had this to say about the fine. In a video post, Key lamented, “Rico. Man, you got robbed. You only did two pumps,” further highlighting the comedic essence of the moment. He later added with humor, “I’m sorry, man. Now I’m going to have to write a new sketch,” suggesting that the incident could inspire further comedic material.
Dowdle missed practice on Wednesday with a quad injury that was not related to the touchdown celebration. Coach Dave Canales reassured fans that the team is counting on him to play in their upcoming game, indicating his importance to the team’s strategy.
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