THE SPORTSMISTAKES RECORD

Marty Mornhinweg Takes the Wind

2002 • NFL • Coaching Mistake • Overtime Decision
Marty Mornhinweg Takes the Wind — SportsMistakes artwork

THE STORY

In a November 2002 NFL game between the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears, Lions head coach Marty Mornhinweg won the overtime coin toss and chose to kick off, opting to have the wind at his team's back. The Bears received the ball, advanced to the Lions' 22-yard line, and kicker Paul Edinger secured a 40-yard field goal, ending the game with a 23-20 victory for Chicago. (latimes.com)

TEAMS / PEOPLE: Detroit Lions, Chicago Bears

WHY IT MATTERS

Mornhinweg's decision was widely criticized and remains a notable example of an unconventional coaching choice in NFL history.

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