Houston LB Whitney Mercilus says he was fined $15,000 for hit on Baltimore QB Joe Flacco

HOUSTON – Houston outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus says he's been fined $15,000 for a hit on Baltimore quarterback Joe Flacco.

Mercilus was fined for a play where his helmet hit the chin of Flacco. Mercilus was given a penalty for roughing the passer on the play.

Baltimore won the game 30-9 to give Houston its first loss of the season.

Mercilus spoke after practice on Wednesday, and says he plans to appeal the fine.

The second-year player has 13 tackles and a sack this season.