A heated clash between NFL greats Brett Favre and Mark Gastineau has reignited the controversy surrounding Michael Strahan’s record-breaking sack in 2001.

October 7, 2007; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre (4) calls a play as Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher (54) lines up before a play at Lambeau Field. The Bears defeated the Packers 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Photo By Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images Copyright (c) 2007 Jeff Hanisch

The drama unfolded after a viral video captured Gastineau confronting Favre at a memorabilia event in 2023, accusing him of “taking a dive” to gift Strahan the single-season sack record.

As reported by Fox News, Gastineau, the former New York Jets star, expressed his frustration, claiming that Favre’s actions “hurt” him and even declared during their exchange, “I’m going to take my sack back.”

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The moment has sparked debate in the football world about sportsmanship, legacy, and records.

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In response to the controversy, Favre took to X (formerly Twitter) to explain his side of the story and address the footage.

Reflecting on the final game of the 2001 season, Favre clarified, “When Michael Strahan sacked me at the end of a game we had wrapped up, I was in no way trying to hurt Mark Gastineau.”

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Favre recounted the play, saying he booted out of a run, saw Strahan positioned to make a tackle, and decided to duck. He admitted that it wasn’t Strahan’s “best sack,” but emphasized the game was already over, and he didn’t feel the need to avoid the sack with extraordinary effort.

“Maybe it crossed my mind to help Strahan,” Favre admitted. “I didn’t think it through. That wasn’t my forte at the time. I just wanted to have fun and compete.” While acknowledging Gastineau’s feelings, Favre denied any intent to harm the former sack king’s legacy.

Favre also criticized the viral video, noting it captured a personal exchange that wasn’t meant for public consumption.

“It’s not the kind of moment that should be filmed and released,” he said. “It was a private moment of frustration between two old football warriors.”

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However, Favre expressed admiration for Gastineau, describing him as a “great player” who deserves a place in the Hall of Fame. “This controversy should bring attention to just how great Mark Gastineau was. He belongs in Canton.”

The viral moment comes as Gastineau continues to wait for his Hall of Fame induction, watching as his former defensive line partner, Joe Klecko, was finally honored this year.

Meanwhile, an upcoming documentary about the legendary New York Sack Exchange shines a spotlight on Gastineau’s legacy, but also captures his pointed claim that Favre “took a dive” for Strahan.

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Gastineau’s accusation has reignited debates among fans and analysts about the integrity of records and the fine line between competition and camaraderie in professional sports.

While Favre attempted to ease tensions, his response suggests he understands why Gastineau might feel slighted. Still, Favre insists he acted without malice and views Gastineau as a peer rather than an adversary.

The NFL world may never fully agree on the events that led to Strahan’s record-breaking moment, but one thing remains clear—both men left their mark on the game, though in different ways.

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