NFL preseason games frequently feature coaches or players mic’d up on the sideline to spice up broadcasts and provide viewers with more entertainment during an otherwise lackluster football product.
On Saturday, the Minnesota Vikings broadcast had head coach Kevin O’Connell mic’d up for a live interview from the sideline. And it showed an example of the risk that comes for these broadcasts in doing interviews on live television with a coach who’s in the middle of, well, coaching.
In the third quarter, O’Connell was mic’d up on the Fox 9 broadcast of the Vikings’ preseason game against the New England Patriots at U.S. Bank Stadium.
“I’m excited about this year’s team and excited about this play-call, fellas,” O’Connell told the broadcasters. “We’ve got a fast-motion…”
O’Connell then realized that the Vikings were about to get called for an illegal formation penalty.
“Oh no! F*ck…”
“I’m excited about this year’s team and excited about this play-call, fellas. We’ve got a fast-motion… ohhh no, f*ck…” – Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell mic’d up 🤷 pic.twitter.com/60C5N2mS27
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) August 16, 2025
The penalty wiped out a big play for the Vikings.
“It’s coming back,” a disappointed O’Connell told the announcers as the play was being completed.
Even in the preseason, an illegal formation penalty will drive a coach crazy, especially when it comes to one of the top offensive minds in the sport. And that might lead to an F-bomb or two.
Unfortunate timing for the Fox 9 broadcast, but that’s live TV for you.
About Matt Clapp
Matt is an editor/writer at The Comeback and Awful Announcing.
He can be reached by email at mclapp@thecomeback.com.