10 most agonizing playoff losses in Minnesota Vikings history
By Ben Donahue
9. 1970 Divisional Round
San Francisco 49ers - 17
Minnesota Vikings - 14
The year before Minnesota literally dropped the ball several times against Dallas in the playoffs, they looked like the team to beat in 1970.
Unlike the 1971 Vikings, the 1970 offense was third in the NFL, and the Purple People Eaters defense ranked first, giving up just over 10 points per contest.
After a 2-1 start, Minnesota reeled off seven straight wins and ended the year with a 12-2 record, which was also tops in the league.
In the Divisional round at home in Minnesota, the Vikings met the 10-3-1 San Francisco 49ers, who were in their first postseason since 1957. The Niners' offense was the best in the NFL while the defense was 14th.
Minnesota scored first when Paul Krause scooped up a loose ball and returned it 22 yards for a touchdown. Then, San Francisco scored 17 unanswered points before the Vikings finally got back on the board in the fourth quarter.
During the game, the Niners coughed up three fumbles and Minnesota had four turnovers. The final score was 17-14, Niners, and Minnesota lost its first home game in 16 opportunities.
San Francisco would lose in the NFC Championship game to Dallas.