Thomas Morstead, the 6-foot-4, 235-punter for the New Orleans Saints, showed his size during the NFC divisional playoff game when he was forced to tackle Minnesota punt returner Marcus Sherels following the Saints' opening drive. The tackle seemed normal until Morstead stood up and winced while holding his rib cage. The eight-year veteran continued to punt throughout the game, despite being in serious pain. He drilled 56- and 54-yard punts after the injury, holding onto his ribs after each.
After the “Minnesota Miracle” occurred, Saints players headed to the locker room to escape the celebration of the Vikings and their fans.