NFL suspends 2nd Bills player for spitting, though Sam Franklin denies allegation and plans appeal

The NFL has suspended Buffalo Bills defensive back Sam Franklin for one game without pay for spitting at a Raiders opponent during last weekend’s contest in Las Vegas. The league announced the punishment Wednesday, making Franklin the team’s second player to receive a one-game ban for sportsmanship violations related to spitting. Franklin denies the allegation and plans to appeal, according to a person familiar with discussions who spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. The suspension begins Oct. 26 and runs through Nov. 2, spanning the week after the Bills’ Oct. 26 bye and prior to their Oct. 27 game hosting the Baltimore Ravens.