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Justin Smith ejected for shoving official

Dexter McCluster

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Dexter McCluster (22) catches a pass under pressure from San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Justin Smith (94) to score a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 26, 2010 in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

AP

After the 49ers took three points off the board and then failed in their attempt to score seven, the San Fran defense took the field.

And one of their key players let his emotions get the better of him.

Defensive end Justin Smith shoved an official after getting into a pushing match with a member the San Diego offense. Smith promptly was disqualified from the game. Though NFLN’s Matt Millen was amazed by the outcome, the rule is clear. If a player shoves an official, he’s ejected.

Niners fans will argue that the official shoved Smith first. But the official was trying to break up the potential fight, and a player when being shoved away from a potential fight by an official can’t shove back.

Well, the player can. If he’s willing to call it a night.