Minnesota Vikings Epic Moments

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Dec 3, 2012

Minnesota Vikings Epic Moments

Jan. 4, 1970

Quarterback Joe Kapp runs for one touchdown, throws for another and knocks out Cleveland linebacker Jim Houston while hurdling an attempted tackle as the Vikings whip the Browns 27-7 in the NFL title game and qualify for their first Super Bowl. Sadly, it will be Kapp's last game in Minnesota as a salary dispute triggers his trade to the Patriots.

Dec. 30, 1973

The Vikings hand the Cowboys their first playoff defeat at Texas Stadium and win the NFC title game 27-10 as Fran Tarkenton throws a 54-yard TD pass to John Gilliam and Minnesota runners gash the Dallas Doomsday defense for 206 yards rushing. The Vikings defense forces six turnovers.

March 10, 1967

Vikings hire Bud Grant as head coach, beginning the most successful era in franchise history. Grant, who had led Winnipeg to four Grey Cup titles and earlier played for two NBA champions with the Minneapolis Lakers, makes the Vikings perennial winners, guiding them to 168 victories, 12 playoff berths and four Super Bowls over 18 seasons.

Nov. 4, 2007

Adrian Peterson scores on runs of 1, 64 and 46 yards en route to an NFL single-game rushing record of 296 yards in a 35-17 win over San Diego. He averages a staggering 9.9 yards per carry for 30 attempts.

Dec. 14, 1980

Tommy Kramer's 46-yard TD pass to Ahmad Rashad on the final play of the game culminates a wild rally as the Vikings score 19 unanswered fourth-quarter points to edge Cleveland 28-23 and secure a playoff berth.