Flashback Friday: Vikings Beat 49ers in 1987 Divisional Playoffs
By Ali Siddiqui
Let’s take a look back at the 1987 playoffs when the Minnesota Vikings faced the San Francisco 49ers in a Divisional Round playoff game.
The Minnesota Vikings are coming off a shocking win last week over the New Orleans Saints on the road. and they will now travel to the West Coast to take on the top-seeded San Francisco 49ers.
The all-time series between these two teams is 23-23-1, including the playoffs. The Vikings are 1-4 against them in the playoffs and that one victory game in the 1987 Divisional round.
During that game in 1987, quarterback Wade Wilson went 20 for 34 for 298 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. Anthony Carter had 10 receptions for 227 yards. Hassan Jones and Carl Hilton each caught a touchdown pass. Chris Doleman recorded two sacks.
For San Francisco, Joe Montana went 12 for 26 for 109 yards and an interception. Steve Young went 12 for 17 for 158 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Young also rushed for 72 yards and a touchdown on six carries. Roger Craig had nine receptions for 78 yards. Jerry Rice was held to three receptions for 28 yards.
Vikings won 36-24.
That team also defeated the Saints on the road in round one. Will the Vikings repeat history and beat San Francisco again in the following round? It will be tough, but it can be done. How many thought this team was going to win last week?
The Wild Card round of the playoffs also saw the sixth seed Titans from the AFC knock off the Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots.
The biggest key for the Vikings will be slowing down that spectacular 49ers defensive line. Tight End George Kittle will also be a tough task.
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If this team once again has a good defensive game, they got a great shot. Getting Dalvin Cook going will once again be a big key too.
Prediction: Vikings win 27-24