By Darin 🏈 The Unthinkable Upset in Minneapolis
On January 17, 1999, the Minnesota Vikings seemed destined for glory. Boasting a historic 15–1 regular season and a record-breaking offense that had put up 556 points, they entered the NFC Championship Game at the Metrodome as 11-point favorites. With a rookie sensation in Randy Moss and a revitalized Randall Cunningham, a trip to Super Bowl XXXIII felt like a formality. Instead, the night ended in one of the most staggering upsets in NFL history, leaving a “Purple Pride” fan base in a state of permanent “what if.”
The “Perfect” Season Comes Undone
The game was a back-and-forth thriller, but the Vikings appeared to have it sealed late in the fourth quarter. Leading 27–20 with just over two minutes remaining, Minnesota kicker Gary Anderson stepped onto the field for a 38-yard field goal. Anderson had been literally perfect all season, successfully making every single field goal and extra point attempt through the regular season and playoffs.
In a moment that still haunts Minnesota sports, Anderson pushed the kick wide left. It was his first miss in 122 attempts, and it gave the “Dirty Bird” Falcons a glimmer of life. Atlanta quarterback Chris Chandler capitalized immediately, orchestrating an 8-play, 71-yard drive that culminated in a 16-yard touchdown pass to Terance Mathis with only 49 seconds left on the clock.
Article from Jan 18, 1999 The Atlanta Journal (Atlanta, Georgia)
Sudden Death and the Other Andersen
The shock in the Metrodome was palpable as the game headed into overtime. Despite the Vikings’ high-powered offense getting two possessions in the extra period, they were unable to find the end zone. The Falcons eventually marched back down the field, setting up their own kicker—Morten Andersen. Unlike his counterpart, Morten stayed true, drilling a 38-yard game-winner to secure a 30–27 victory and Atlanta’s first-ever Super Bowl appearance.
Conclusion: A Legacy of “What Could Have Been”
The 1998 Vikings remain arguably the greatest team in NFL history never to reach a Super Bowl. While the Falcons celebrated their “Dirty Bird” dance all the way to Miami, Minnesota was left to grapple with the cruel margins of professional football. Decades later, the 1998 NFC Championship is still remembered not for the 60 minutes of elite play, but for a single missed kick that derailed a dynasty before it could even begin.
