The Agonizing History of Heartbreak as a Minnesota Vikings Fan

The Frustrating History of the Minnesota Vikings

As a lifelong fan of the Minnesota Vikings, I've had my fair share of heartbreak. This team has made me crack open a cold one on more Sundays than I can count. Their knack for finding creative ways to lose games in gut-wrenching fashion never ceases to amaze me. From missed field goals to boneheaded interceptions, the Vikings have caused me to drown my sorrows with a strong drink or two...or three.

Don't get me wrong, there have been some great moments too. But it seems like for every fond memory, there are two more painful ones etched into my brain. No matter how promising a season starts out, experience has taught me to keep the liquor cabinet fully stocked.

The 1970s Teams That Came Up Short

The 1970s were a rollercoaster ride for Vikings fans. There were some incredibly talented teams that made deep playoff runs but couldn't quite reach the mountaintop. From the "Purple People Eaters" defensive line to the dynamic duo of Fran Tarkenton and Chuck Foreman, Minnesota fielded some juggernauts in the 70s.

Who can forget the 1975 squad that went 12-2 in the regular season and obliterated teams with a lethal passing attack? They seemed destined for a Super Bowl, but the Cowboys had other plans. A Hail Mary touchdown by Roger Staubach in the final seconds of their divisional playoff game dashed the Vikings' dreams and had me questioning my will to live.

Then there was the 1977 team led by the NFL MVP Tarkenton that once again secured home field advantage heading into the playoffs. Yet the Oakland Raiders came into a frosty Metropolitan Stadium and upset the Vikings in the AFC Championship. I mostly remember staring solemnly at my empty glass after that one.

The 1998 Group That Went All In

The late 90s Vikings captured the hearts of fans across Minnesota. In 1998, they went 15-1 in the regular season and fielded one of the most explosive offenses in NFL history behind Randall Cunningham, Cris Carter, and rookie Randy Moss.

They were an absolute juggernaut and the Lombardi Trophy seemed like a foregone conclusion. I was ready to party like it was 1999 after they inevitably won the big game. Well, we all know what happened next. Gary Anderson missed a routine field goal for the first time all season, the Falcons capitalized in overtime, and I had to drink away my shock.

That loss was like Lucy pulling the football away from Charlie Brown at the last second for the umpteenth time. The Vikings found a new way to turn optimism into agony. At least I had a blueberry vodka tonic to ease the pain.

The 2000s and More Missed Kicks

The bad luck seemed to follow Minnesota into the next decade. In the 2000 NFC Championship, the underdog Vikings found themselves mounting a furious second half comeback against the Giants. Down 13 points in the 4th quarter, they rallied to tie it with just over 2 minutes left.

They had all the momentum heading into overtime and Vikings Nation was ready to pop the bubbly. But alas, the dreaded curse of the kicker reared its ugly head once again. Gary Anderson's replacement, Morten Andersen, badly missed a 38-yard FG and the Giants took advantage, booting the game-winner soon after.

I couldn't even muster any emotion at that point. I just shook my head, resigned to the inevitable misery this team kept causing me. A double shot of whiskey was all I could manage after that devastating loss.

The Pain and Passion of Vikings Fandom

It's not easy being a Minnesota Vikings fan. They've found more creative ways to lose crucial games than any team in history. While the heartbreak and frustration has often led me to imbibe more than a sane person should, it has also forged an unbreakable bond. We've endured the lows together and will celebrate the highs together, whenever they may come.

So here's to you, my fellow gluttons for punishment. Crack open a cold one and rue the last five decades of what-could-have-beens. But don't lose hope. At least we can take solace in the fact that no matter how much this team makes us suffer, it will never stop us from cheering them on.

Skol Vikings! Now please go get me a drink.

FAQs

What is the most heartbreaking loss in Vikings history?

The 1998 NFC Championship game where the Vikings went 15-1 in the regular season and lost to the Falcons in overtime after Gary Anderson missed his first field goal of the season is likely the most heartbreaking loss.

Which Vikings loss caused the most drinking?

The 1975 divisional playoff loss to the Cowboys on a last-second Hail Mary likely resulted in massive amounts of drinking by dejected Vikings fans.

Have the Vikings ever won a Super Bowl?

Unfortunately, no. The Vikings have never won a Super Bowl in their 60+ year history despite making it there 4 times.

What is the best Vikings season ever?

The 1998 season where they went 15-1 and set the NFL record for most points scored is likely their best season, although the painful playoff exit leaves a bitter aftertaste.

Why do Vikings fans still support them after so much disappointment?

The passion and camaraderie of Vikings fans always gives hope that someday they will finally win it all, and celebrating that together will make it even sweeter.