Yesterday marked the **63rd anniversary** of the Minnesota Vikings’ first-ever NFL game, a memorable moment for the franchise. On **September 17, 1961**, the Vikings, under head coach **Norm Van Brocklin**, took the field at **Metropolitan Stadium**. Though an expansion team, they shocked the league by defeating the **Chicago Bears** with a resounding **37-13** victory. Rookie quarterback **Fran Tarkenton** didn’t start the game but made an immediate impact, throwing for **four touchdowns** and running for another.
Although the Vikings struggled through the rest of their inaugural season, finishing with a **3-13** record, they quickly grew into a competitive team. By **1970**, they made their first appearance in the **Super Bowl**, setting the foundation for a storied franchise.
This anniversary celebrates the Vikings’ journey from a new team to one with a rich history in the NFL.