Watch: Referee penalizes Earl Thomas for giving him a hug

Earl Thomas ran back a fumble for a touchdown, then earned an unusual penalty.

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The NFL has made it very clear this season that there is nothing worse than having fun. Seahawks safety Earl Thomas was the latest player to learn that tough lesson.

Thomas was understandably excited after he returned a Saints fumble for a touchdown and decided to celebrate by giving side judge Alex Kemp a big hug. Kemp didn’t appreciate the show of affection.

LEGION OF BOOM.

The @Seahawks force the fumble.
And @Earl_Thomas takes it to the HOUSE. #SEAvsNO
https://t.co/0NVGxEGQlp
— NFL (@NFL) October 30, 2016

#https://vine.co/v/5pHKv2EnIXd

Is that what the rulebook says or did Kemp just not like the invasion of his personal space?

Published Oct 30, 2016

DAN GARTLAND

Dan Gartland is the writer and editor of Sports Illustrated’s flagship daily newsletter, SI:AM, covering everything an educated sports fan needs to know. He joined the SI staff in 2014, having previously been published on Deadspin and Slate. Gartland, a graduate of Fordham University, is a former Sports Jeopardy! champion (Season 1, Episode 5).

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