SMU’s Will Benton made those who played the unsung position of long snapper celebrate on Saturday after scoring what may be the unlikeliest touchdown of the entire 2023 college football season.
With the Mustangs leading 28–7 in the second quarter against Navy, SMU punted the ball to the Midshipmen. Navy returner Amin Hassan muffed the punt allowing the ball to roll into the end zone.
Following a brief scramble for the ball, Benton came away with the ball inside the end zone for a SMU touchdown.
This is Will Benton (@WillBenton10).
Will is our long-snapper.Will just recovered a punt, that
HE SNAPPED, for a touchdown.A lot to unpack here. Enjoy ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/JqXp8gXkK3
— SMU Football (@SMUFB) November 25, 2023
After a brief video review, it was determined that the ball hit Hassan’s towel—which by rule is considered part of his body—giving the senior long snapper the ultimate glory of scoring a touchdown on a ball he originally snapped.
The 9–2 Mustangs are on their way to eighth consecutive win after leading Navy 52–14 at halftime.