2026 NFL Bad Beat: A Hockenson Slide That Will Haunt Vikings Bettors Forever

Vikings spread bettors, look away. Leading 15-10 with just over two minutes remaining, and facing a crucial third-and-5, Kyler Murray rolled to his right and threw across the field to a wide-open T.J. Hockenson for what looked like a game-sealing touchdown. Until it wasn’t. Instead of heading into the end zone, Hockenson pulled up and slid at the 1-yard line. The Vikings then kneeled out the clock to secure a 15-10 win. Minnesota was a 10.5-point favorite. A touchdown would have made it 21-10, enough to cover the spread even without the extra point. Instead, Hockenson’s slide delivered a bettor’s nightmare, leaving Minnesota backers stunned on Sunday evening. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. To make matters worse for Vikings bettors, Minnesota controlled nearly every part of the game: Despite moving the ball throughout the game, Minnesota couldn't find the end zone. With the win, the Vikings improved to 4-0 for the 11th time in franchise history and the second time in the past three seasons. According to Action Network, 74% of spread bets were on Vikings -10.5. Our first true bad beat of the season probably won’t be the last. But moments like these are why we do it: pure joy for Dolphins backers and absolute heartbreak for those holding Vikings -10.5 tickets.