I feel very bad for the Vikings - loved them as a kid, watching Fran Tarkenton, Alan Page, and the rest of that amazing team of the early 70’s.
Sad thing for them was the Steelers were just a little better. I remember as a young Vikings fan feeling cheated. Its tough being the biggest and toughest kid in the schoolyard when there’s one who just a smidgen bigger and tougher than you.
You're right...the early '70's Vikings were something special...the stone-faced Bud Grant on the frozen sidelines with no heaters (of course the other team had them)...his team lined up straight-arrowed with helmets in hand while the national anthem was played.
Guys like Carl Eller, Alan Page, Sir Francis, Matt Blair and others exemplifying character.
All of it ending in bitter disappointment...and not just in the Super Bowl.
I thought the 1975 Vikings were the best team they ever fielded, and were destined to win it all.
I don't know how old you are, but if you saw the famous "Hail Mary" that ended that splendid team's season (Tarkenton's father died watching the game) you might understand what a sports bitter pill really is. (you may have heard an official took a whiskey bottle to the head in that one)
It's ancient history, but most Vikings fans still feel robbed, as the call should've been made, and the game ended in the Vikings favor.
Instead, their team of destiny went home.
It just so happens I was in the Metrodome to watch the only 15-1 team Not To Make The Super Bowl, when Gary Anderson missed the only field goal of his season that year.
Talk about a team of destiny...most Vikings fans (myself included), must feel the Lombardi Trophy is destined to never make it to Minneapolis.
Good luck with the Pats this season...you have a lot to be proud of.
Best run ever.