In the grand scheme of things, not many will remember Johnny Hekker's bungled hold on a PAT during the Super Bowl.
After the Rams scored a touchdown early in the second quarter against the Bengals, Hekker mishandled the snap on kicker Matt Gay's extra point attempt, leaving Los Angeles with a 13-3 lead. The Rams ended up winning the game 23-20, so the drop didn't have an impact on the result.
However, it did prove consequential for bettors.
MORE: Why people think Tom Brady won't stay retired for long
For most of the two weeks leading up to the Super Bowl, the Rams were four-point favorites to beat the Bengals. So, because of Hekker's miscue, those that bet the Rams as four-point favorites ended up losing. Had Gay made the routine kick, bettors would have pushed and gotten their money back.
So, while Bengals +4 bettors are surely thanking Hekker for his uncharacteristic error, Rams bettors have to be a bit peeved about it. Especially the guy who bet the Rams to score more than 13.5 points in the first half and just missed because of Hekker's drop.
IYER: How six plays helped the Rams win Super Bowl 56 over the Bengals
As a result, some gamblers came after Hekker on social media for costing them a victory — or push — against the spread. Ever the savvy social media personality, the punter took this opportunity to clap back at them with a witty retort.
1-800-BetsOff for all you people whining at me about your bets.
— Johnny Hekker (@JHekker) February 16, 2022
For those that don't know, 1-800-BetsOff is the number of a gambling help hotline.
Well played, Hekker. Well played.
IYER: Top 50 free agents of the 2022 NFL offseason
