The closing sequences of the Minnesota Vikings’ overtime defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals on NFL Network revealed a potential discord between head coach Kevin O’Connell and defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
Following an unsuccessful quarterback sneak on third down in overtime, the Vikings chose to attempt the same strategy in a hurry-up fashion.
Minnesota fell short of gaining the yard needed to prolong their sole opportunity for points in overtime. Subsequently, the Bengals successfully converted a field goal, securing a 27-24 victory on Saturday, December 16.
During the broadcast, Flores was seen rushing to O’Connell’s side and urging him to call a timeout before the unsuccessful fourth-down conversion. This on-air moment intensified scrutiny of O’Connell’s decision-making with the game hanging in the balance.
In a news conference on December 18, the Vikings’ head coach addressed the chaotic moment and Flores’ advice, clarifying that the focus was on confirming the spot of the ball rather than critiquing the play call itself.
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