Al Michaels Unintentionally Jinxes Chargers Star on TNF Ruining Perfect Season Dreams
During a recent Thursday Night Football matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Chargers, a significant moment unfolded. Al Michaels, the veteran sports commentator, found himself at the center of controversy as fans accused him of jinxing Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker.
Al Michaels and the Jinx
The game aired on Prime Video as the Chargers made an impressive offensive push. Quarterback Justin Herbert orchestrated a seven-play, 61-yard drive, culminating in a key pass to Oronde Gadsden. Shortly after, he connected with Keenan Allen, positioning the team for a potential scoring opportunity.
Cameron Dicker, recognized as one of the NFL’s most accurate kickers, approached the field with a remarkable record. Before this game, he had converted all 15 of his attempts this season, including a notable 55-yarder earlier in the season’s match against the Washington Commanders.
The Missed Opportunity
Michaels, who humorously claimed to have never eaten a vegetable, expressed confidence in Dicker’s ability. As he announced the “forty-nine-yard attempt,” Michaels recounted Dicker’s impressive history, highlighting the Chargers’ struggles to find a consistent kicker until Dicker’s arrival. Unfortunately, the moment turned sour when Dicker’s kick veered wide left.
- Attempt Length: 49 yards
- Dicker’s Season Record: 15-15 prior to this game
- Michaels’ Comment on the Miss: “There goes the perfect season.”
The jinx became a hot topic on social media, with fans expressing their thoughts. One user remarked on Michaels’ apparent thrill in jinxing kickers, while another noted that Dicker was destined to miss the kick following Michaels’ commentary. Despite the setback, the Chargers held a solid lead at halftime.
Vikings Struggle to Capitalize
The Vikings, led by quarterback Carson Wentz, failed to exploit the missed opportunity. Their subsequent possession resulted in a punt, maintaining the Chargers’ advantage. Shortly thereafter, Minnesota’s own field goal attempt also went awry. Kicker Will Reichard’s 53-yard effort missed the mark, as time expired in the first half.
As the game progressed into the third quarter, the Vikings finally managed to score. Wentz connected with Jordan Addison for a 4-yard touchdown pass, providing a much-needed boost to the ailing Minnesota offense.
