NEW YORK — Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh can play in Detroit's wild-card game after his one-game NFL suspension was reduced to a $70,000 fine.

Hearing officer Ted Cottrell heard Suh's expedited appeal Tuesday and ruled that Suh can play Sunday at Dallas but must pay the fine.

Suh originally was suspended for stepping on Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers' left leg twice last Sunday in a loss to Green Bay for the NFC North title. He stepped on Rodgers once with each foot.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Hornets' playoff hopes took a major hit after an MRI revealed that center Al Jefferson will miss a minimum of four weeks with a strained adductor muscle in his left groin.The injury is a huge blow to owner Michael Jordan's Hornets, who were are struggling at 10-22 but certainly not out of the race for a playoff spot.Jefferson averages 18 points per game.

SAO PAULO — Brazil's new sports minister says he is being unfairly criticized because of his lack of background in sports.After criticism by some of Brazil's top athletes, George Hilton released a statement Tuesday to defend himself against what he called “unjust” and “disloyal” attacks.Hilton, an evangelical pastor who describes himself as a radio and television presenter and a theologian, was appointed by President Dilma Rousseff last week to replace Aldo Rebelo, who was in charge of the 2014 World Cup preparations.