Mark Sanchez responds to Thomas Morstead's NFL 'butt-punt'

It is already being labelled an ‘iconic’ moment in NFL history, but for Miami Dolphins punter Thomas Morstead, his embarrassing ‘butt punt’ during Monday morning’s (AEDT) NFL clash with the Buffalo Bills is a play he would probably rather forget.

The Dolphins were leading 21-17 late the the fourth quarter of the contest when Morstead was called on to punt from the back of his own end zone.

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Morstead handled the snap cleanly, but with very little room to work with, managed only to unleash a powerful kick directly into the backside of his personal protector Trent Sherfield.

The ball rebounded off Sherfield out the back of the end zone, with the Dolphins conceding two points for a safety on the play.

NFL social media immediately went into meltdown, wasting no time labelling the humiliating play the ‘butt punt’.

Former NFL punter Pat McAfee provided his own unique commentary of the play in a hilarious tweet.

“Oh no, backed up, Thomas Morstead punts it right into the ass of his personal protector!” McAfee exclaimed.

“Thud, thud is never a good sound (for a punter) especially if it’s off a guy’s ass.

“We have an ass safety in Miami.”

The play was likened by many to Mark Sanchez’s infamous ‘butt fumble’ while playing quarterback for the New York Jets in 2012.

Sanchez’s notorious play became part of NFL folklore after he slipped and fell into the buttocks of his offensive lineman Brandon Moore, causing him to fumble the ball.

Thankfully for Dolphins fans, Morstead redeemed himself, booming the ensuing kickoff after the safety 74 yards to the Buffalo 6-yard line. It was only returned to the 23.

Hilariously, Sanchez himself weighed in on the unfortunate moment, showing fans a sense of humour over his own mortifying error - one of many fans making light of the bungled punt.

From there, Miami’s defence held strong, preventing the Bills from getting into field goal range and securing a 21-19 victory.

The Bills were left to rue the missed opportunity, with Buffalo offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey caught on camera aggressively venting his frustration at the conclusion of the game.

However, speaking to reporters afterward, Allen insisted he was ‘fine’ and the had injury was not serious.

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