Tim Brando has certainly been around long enough in broadcasting to understand the terrible power of an announcer jinx.
That did not prevent him from tempting fate Saturday in the closing seconds of Minnesota’s upset win against No. 24 Illinois.
The Fighting Illini trailed 25-17 with 36 seconds remaining but had the ball on Minnesota’s 16-yard line.
“If they could win this game, somehow, someway, if you look at the rest of their schedule, they could possibly have a 10-win season,” Brando said.
Just as he finished saying that, Illinois snapped the ball. Minnesota defensive lineman Jah Joyner strip-sacked quarterback Luke Altmyer, and the Golden Gophers recovered the ball.
“Ball is loose! Minnesota’s on top of it!” Brando said. “Game, set, match!”
All time announcer jinx for Illinois pic.twitter.com/Bcxqcf46SQ
— HEWY (@NBAWHOLE) November 2, 2024
After the game, Altmyer said he was sure the play would result in a touchdown. Unaware of Brando’s key role in the play, the QB accepted blame for the fumble.
“I’ve got to put our team in better positions to just stay on the field,” Altmyer said.
#Illini QB Luke Altmyer thought the game-ending strip sack play was going to be a touchdown, but instead a three-man rush got home for his second lost fumble on the day.
“I’ve got to put our team in better positions to just stay on the field” pic.twitter.com/ZIGq3cSgjc
— Tristan Thomas (@TristanThomasTV) November 3, 2024
Brando’s in good company when it comes to the announcer jinx. All the broadcasting greats have had their share, from Jim Nantz and Kevin Burkhardt to Ian Eagle and Kevin Harlan.
[HEWY via X]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.