Here's an unpleasant story out of Green Bay, where Detroit Lions center Dominic Raiola has been accused of hurling hateful comments at members of a college marching band before Sunday's loss to the Packers.
According to eyewitnesses, Raiola spent part of his pregame routine going after The Wisconsin Band, which was at Lambeau Field for its annual performance at the storied stadium. Raiola allegedly taunted several band members for being overweight, questioned the sexuality of at least one band member, said the band "sucked" and used a highly derogatory term toward a female member of the group.
"Dominic Raiola is literally the worst person I have ever had the fortune to encounter," one band member remarked in a Facebook post.
"We are aware of the reports involving Dominic Raiola and the University of Wisconsin Marching Band," the Lions said in a statement. "Those reports are extremely inconsistent with the standard of behavior we expect from our players and from every member of our organization. We currently are gathering more information and will respond further when appropriate."
According to MLive.com, Raiola has been disciplined twice by the Lions for fan altercations. He was fined $7,500 in 2008 and $15,000 in 2010.
Asked about the incident Monday, Raiola said the interaction with the band was "blown way out of proportion."
"We've got more important things to worry about right now," Raiola said, via Myfoxdetroit.com. "... We're worried about wins and losses."
If the accusations are true, we feel comfortable coming to the conclusion that Dominic Raiola is the worst.
UPDATE: Lori Berquam, Wisconsin's dean of students, and band director Mike Leckrone told The Associated Press that Lions president Tom Lewand apologized for Raiola's behavior.
"He has apologized for the actions of his player and has assured us that further discussion will take place. Special opportunities such as playing before a Packers game are highlights for our band members: something they look forward to, and that we hope they will remember with pride. We are proud of the way members of the UW Band have brought this matter to our attention."
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