Vikings' Harrison Smith ejected for pushing ref

By foxsports
Published

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith has been ejected from the game against Tennessee after pushing an official who was trying to break up an on-field altercation.

Several Titans and Vikings tangled in the second quarter after Minnesota's Antoine Winfield intercepted a pass from Matt Hasselbeck. The hard-nosed Smith was right in the middle of the confrontation, and an official stepped in to try to steer him out of the area.

Smith kept jawing with the Titans players, and pushed the official to the side as he tried to get closer to the action.

A flag was thrown and referee Jeff Triplette said Smith was disqualified for shoving an official.

Rookie Robert Blanton replaced Smith at safety on the Vikings' next defensive series.