An upset Queensland is considering an appeal after halfback Will Genia was on Tuesday night suspended for four weeks for a dangerous tackle.

Because of the bye Genia has effectively been banned for three Super 14 matches for his spear tackle on Sharks flanker Keegan Daniel in Saturday night's 25-13 victory at Suncorp Stadium.

Reds coach Phil Mooney was highly disappointed by the result after a 90 minute SANZAR judicial hearing in Brisbane and indicated they may appeal.

"We're extremely disappointed and we'll consider our options," Mooney said.

"Fuelling the Reds' belief Genia deserved a lighter sentence, former Wallabies captain George Gregan only received a one week ban in 2006 when he pulled off a similar driving tackle on Highlanders back Richard Kahui when playing for the Brumbies.

Genia's absence for Queensland's next match on March 28 against the Chiefs leaves the franchise with a halfback crisis as fellow No.9 Ben Lucas is in doubt with a rib injury.

Lucas will be assessed again before this weekend's bye but is highly unlikely of lining up against All Blacks halfback Brendon Leonard.

Queensland Academy halfback Brendan McKibbin is now in line for his Super 14 debut after impressing with the Academy side and also taking out the Brisbane club player of the year award in 2008.

Mooney dismissed reports former NSW captain Chris Whitaker will return from Irish club Leinster to make a special one-off appearance in the Reds No.9 jersey.

"Brendan is the first cab off the rank," said Mooney.

"He's been on our development tour, has been the standout player in the club competition and he trained with us all pre-season as well as being with us in this last week.

"So there's no worries there with Brendan at all, and he's also a pretty good goal kicker."

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP