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Fan Says Hatred For Steelers Moved Him To Run On Field

POSTED: 3:40 pm EST December 27, 2005
UPDATED: 3:37 pm EST December 28, 2005

The fan who rushed the field on Saturday at Cleveland Browns Stadium and was bodyslammed by Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison has pleaded not guilty.

Nathan Mallett, 24, of Chippewa Lake, Ohio, entered the plea Tuesday in Cleveland Municipal Court. He is charged with disorderly conduct while intoxicated and criminal trespassing.

If convicted, Mallett faces up to 30 days in jail and a $250 fine. But he said the worst part is that the Browns may ban him from attending home games.

"I guess I'll still watch them on TV," Mallett said.

He said he was drunk at the game, which Pittsburgh won 41-0, and he ran onto the field because he was angry.

"There's nothing I can say except I hate losing to the Steelers," he said.

As Mallett neared the Pittsburgh sideline, Harrison picked him up from behind and pinned him to the turf until police arrived.

Mallett apologized to the Browns and advised other fans who may have similar ideas to think twice.

"Don't do it," said Mallett, who spent Christmas Eve behind bars. "It ain't worth it."

A Browns spokesman said that banning Mallett is a possibility, but the team will see what happens in court before making a decision.

Steelers coach Bill Cowher said NFL officials have not contacted him regarding Harrison's actions.

"They shouldn't," Cowher said.

After a pause, he smiled and added, "Maybe for a 'thank you.' "

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