Overview
- Vanderbilt recovered a CJ Bailey fumble in the end zone and scored the go-ahead touchdown with six seconds left in the fourth quarter on Sept. 19, 2026.
- Game officials reviewed the play, confirmed the touchdown and added one second to the clock, which allowed Vanderbilt to attempt and make the extra point that produced the 35-31 final.
- Before the turnover, ESPN Analytics gave NC State a roughly 94.4 percent chance to cover the spread and sportsbooks and bettors saw the finish as a dramatic 'bad beat' that flipped many wagers.
- The result prompted sharp fan backlash directed at NC State coach Dave Doeren and drew attention to coaching scrutiny across the region, while Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea said the team had "cheated the football gods a little bit."
- ESPN Stats and Info noted this was the first time in about 20 years a team lost while leading and in possession in the final 10 seconds, a rarity that amplified the game's betting and program-level fallout.