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Vikings Quarterbacks: A History Of Success

Trends January 15, 2025

Who are the Vikings QBs over the years?

The Minnesota Vikings have had a number of notable quarterbacks over the years, including Fran Tarkenton, Tommy Kramer, Randall Cunningham, Daunte Culpepper, Brett Favre, and Kirk Cousins.

These quarterbacks have all played a significant role in the Vikings' success, and have helped the team to achieve a number of milestones. For example, Tarkenton led the Vikings to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1970, and Culpepper led the team to the NFC Championship Game in 2000.

The Vikings' quarterbacks have also been recognized for their individual achievements. Tarkenton was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986, and Culpepper was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player in 2004.

Here is a table of the Vikings' quarterbacks over the years, along with their notable achievements:

| Quarterback | Notable Achievements ||---|---|| Fran Tarkenton | Led the Vikings to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1970; inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986 || Tommy Kramer | Led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 1987 || Randall Cunningham | Led the Vikings to the playoffs in 1998 and 1999 || Daunte Culpepper | Led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 2000; named the NFL's Most Valuable Player in 2004 || Brett Favre | Led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 2009 || Kirk Cousins | Led the Vikings to the NFC Divisional Round in 2017 and 2019 |The Vikings' quarterbacks have played a major role in the team's success over the years. They have helped the team to achieve a number of milestones, and have been recognized for their individual achievements.

Vikings QBs Over the Years

The Minnesota Vikings have had a number of notable quarterbacks over the years, including Fran Tarkenton, Tommy Kramer, Randall Cunningham, Daunte Culpepper, Brett Favre, and Kirk Cousins. These quarterbacks have all played a significant role in the Vikings' success, and have helped the team to achieve a number of milestones.

Leadership: Vikings QBs have been leaders on and off the field, guiding the team to success.
Playmaking: Vikings QBs have made big plays when it matters most, leading to crucial wins.
Consistency: Vikings QBs have been able to perform at a high level over a sustained period of time.
Experience: Vikings QBs have a wealth of experience, which has been invaluable to the team.
Success: Vikings QBs have helped the team achieve success, including Super Bowl appearances and NFC Championships.
Legacy: Vikings QBs have left a lasting legacy on the team and the NFL.

These six key aspects highlight the importance of the Vikings' quarterbacks over the years. They have been leaders, playmakers, and winners. They have helped the team to achieve success and have left a lasting legacy on the NFL.

1. Leadership

Leadership is a key quality for any quarterback, and the Vikings have been fortunate to have a number of great leaders at the position over the years. From Fran Tarkenton to Kirk Cousins, Vikings QBs have consistently been looked upon as leaders both on and off the field.

On the field, Vikings QBs have led by example, making big plays and inspiring their teammates to follow suit. They have also been vocal leaders, calling audibles and directing the offense. Off the field, Vikings QBs have been involved in the community, serving as role models for young people and giving back to the state of Minnesota.

The leadership of Vikings QBs has been a major factor in the team's success over the years. They have helped to create a winning culture in Minnesota, and they have inspired their teammates to achieve great things. Here are a few examples of the leadership of Vikings QBs:

Fran Tarkenton led the Vikings to three Super Bowls in the 1970s. He was known for his toughness, leadership, and ability to make big plays.
Tommy Kramer led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 1987. He was known for his intelligence, leadership, and ability to manage the game.
Daunte Culpepper led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 2000. He was known for his athleticism, leadership, and ability to make plays with his arm and his legs.
Brett Favre led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 2009. He was known for his leadership, toughness, and ability to make big plays.
Kirk Cousins has led the Vikings to the NFC Divisional Round in 2017 and 2019. He is known for his leadership, intelligence, and ability to manage the game.

2. Playmaking

Playmaking is a key component of quarterback success, and the Vikings have been fortunate to have a number of great playmakers at the position over the years. From Fran Tarkenton to Kirk Cousins, Vikings QBs have consistently made big plays when it matters most, leading to crucial wins.

There are many examples of Vikings QBs making big plays throughout the team's history. Here are a few:

In the 1970 NFC Championship Game, Fran Tarkenton threw a 39-yard touchdown pass to John Gilliam with just over a minute remaining to give the Vikings a 27-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys.
In the 1987 NFC Divisional Championship Game, Tommy Kramer threw a 17-yard touchdown pass to Anthony Carter with just over two minutes remaining to give the Vikings a 36-24 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
In the 2000 NFC Divisional Championship Game, Daunte Culpepper threw a 41-yard touchdown pass to Randy Moss with just over a minute remaining to give the Vikings a 34-16 victory over the New Orleans Saints.
In the 2009 NFC Championship Game, Brett Favre threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to Greg Lewis with just over a minute remaining to give the Vikings a 31-28 victory over the New Orleans Saints.
In the 2017 NFC Divisional Championship Game, Case Keenum threw a 26-yard touchdown pass to Stefon Diggs with just over 10 seconds remaining to give the Vikings a 29-24 victory over the New Orleans Saints.

These are just a few examples of the many big plays that Vikings QBs have made over the years. These plays have helped the Vikings to win crucial games and advance in the playoffs. They have also helped to create a winning culture in Minnesota and have inspired Vikings fans around the world.

The playmaking ability of Vikings QBs is a key reason for the team's success over the years. Vikings QBs have consistently made big plays when it matters most, and they have helped the team to achieve great things.

3. Consistency

Consistency is a key component of success for any quarterback, and the Vikings have been fortunate to have a number of consistent QBs over the years. From Fran Tarkenton to Kirk Cousins, Vikings QBs have consistently performed at a high level over a sustained period of time.

There are many examples of Vikings QBs being consistent throughout their careers. Here are a few:

Fran Tarkenton was a Pro Bowl selection six times and led the Vikings to three Super Bowls in the 1970s.
Tommy Kramer was a Pro Bowl selection three times and led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 1987.
Randall Cunningham was a Pro Bowl selection four times and led the Vikings to the playoffs in 1998 and 1999.
Daunte Culpepper was a Pro Bowl selection three times and led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 2000.
Brett Favre was a Pro Bowl selection 11 times and led the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in 2009.
Kirk Cousins has been a Pro Bowl selection three times and has led the Vikings to the NFC Divisional Round in 2017 and 2019.

The consistency of Vikings QBs has been a major factor in the team's success over the years. Vikings QBs have been able to provide at the position, which has allowed the team to compete for championships year after year.

The consistency of Vikings QBs is also a testament to the team's coaching staff. The Vikings have had a number of great coaches over the years, including Bud Grant, Jerry Burns, and Mike Zimmer. These coaches have helped to develop and maintain a consistent winning culture in Minnesota.

The consistency of Vikings QBs is a key reason for the team's success over the years. Vikings QBs have been able to provide stability at the position, which has allowed the team to compete for championships year after year. The consistency of Vikings QBs is also a testament to the team's coaching staff, who have helped to develop and maintain a consistent winning culture in Minnesota.

4. Experience

The Minnesota Vikings have had a number of experienced quarterbacks over the years, including Fran Tarkenton, Tommy Kramer, Randall Cunningham, Daunte Culpepper, Brett Favre, and Kirk Cousins. These quarterbacks have all played in the NFL for a number of years, and they have a wealth of experience to draw upon.

Leadership
Experienced quarterbacks are often able to provide leadership to their team. They have seen it all before, and they know how to handle any situation that arises. They can also help to mentor younger players and teach them the ropes.
Decision-making
Experienced quarterbacks are also better at making decisions. They have seen more defenses and more situations than younger quarterbacks, and they know what to look for. This experience can help them to make better decisions on the field, which can lead to more success.
Play execution
Experienced quarterbacks are also better at executing plays. They have a better understanding of the offense, and they know how to get the ball to their receivers in the right place at the right time. This experience can help the team to score more points and win more games.
Clutch performances
Experienced quarterbacks are also more likely to perform well in clutch situations. They have been in big games before, and they know how to handle the pressure. This experience can help the team to win close games and make deep playoff runs.

The experience of Vikings QBs has been invaluable to the team over the years. They have helped the team to win games, make the playoffs, and compete for championships. The Vikings are fortunate to have had so many experienced quarterbacks over the years, and it is a major reason for the team's success.

5. Success

The success of the Minnesota Vikings over the years can be attributed in large part to the play of their quarterbacks. Vikings QBs have helped the team to achieve success in a number of ways, including:

Winning games: Vikings QBs have helped the team to win a lot of games over the years. In fact, the Vikings have a winning record in over 60% of their games since the AFL-NFL merger in 1966. This success is due in large part to the play of the team's quarterbacks.
Making the playoffs: Vikings QBs have also helped the team to make the playoffs on a regular basis. The Vikings have made the playoffs 30 times since the AFL-NFL merger, which is tied for the sixth-most in the NFL. This success is due in large part to the play of the team's quarterbacks.
Competing for championships: Vikings QBs have helped the team to compete for championships on a number of occasions. The Vikings have appeared in four Super Bowls, and they have won 11 NFC Championships. This success is due in large part to the play of the team's quarterbacks.

The success of the Vikings over the years is a testament to the team's quarterbacks. Vikings QBs have been able to provide consistent leadership, playmaking ability, and experience. This has helped the team to win games, make the playoffs, and compete for championships.

The success of Vikings QBs is also a testament to the team's coaching staff. The Vikings have had a number of great coaches over the years, including Bud Grant, Jerry Burns, and Mike Zimmer. These coaches have helped to develop and maintain a consistent winning culture in Minnesota.

The success of Vikings QBs is a major reason for the team's success over the years. Vikings QBs have helped the team to win games, make the playoffs, and compete for championships. The Vikings are fortunate to have had so many great quarterbacks over the years, and it is a major reason for the team's success.

6. Legacy

The Minnesota Vikings have had a number of great quarterbacks over the years, and these QBs have left a lasting legacy on the team and the NFL. Vikings QBs have helped the team to achieve success on the field, and they have also been great ambassadors for the team and the NFL off the field.

On the field, Vikings QBs have helped the team to win games, make the playoffs, and compete for championships. Fran Tarkenton led the Vikings to three Super Bowls in the 1970s, and Brett Favre led the team to the NFC Championship Game in 2009. Daunte Culpepper and Kirk Cousins have also led the Vikings to the NFC Divisional Round in recent years.

Off the field, Vikings QBs have been great ambassadors for the team and the NFL. Fran Tarkenton is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and he is widely considered to be one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Brett Favre is also a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and he is one of the most popular players in NFL history. Daunte Culpepper and Kirk Cousins are both respected leaders in the NFL, and they are both active in their communities.

The legacy of Vikings QBs is one of success and leadership. Vikings QBs have helped the team to achieve success on the field, and they have also been great ambassadors for the team and the NFL off the field. The Vikings are fortunate to have had so many great quarterbacks over the years, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans.

FAQs about Vikings QBs Over the Years

This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Vikings QBs over the years.

Question 1: Who are some of the most notable Vikings QBs?

There have been many notable Vikings QBs over the years, including Fran Tarkenton, Tommy Kramer, Randall Cunningham, Daunte Culpepper, Brett Favre, and Kirk Cousins. These quarterbacks have all played a significant role in the Vikings' success, and have helped the team to achieve a number of milestones.

Question 2: How have Vikings QBs contributed to the team's success?

Vikings QBs have contributed to the team's success in a number of ways. They have led the team to victory in many games, and have helped the team to make the playoffs on a regular basis. Vikings QBs have also helped the team to compete for championships, and have led the team to four Super Bowl appearances.

Question 3: What are some of the qualities that have made Vikings QBs successful?

Vikings QBs have a number of qualities that have contributed to their success. These qualities include leadership, playmaking ability, consistency, experience, and success. Vikings QBs have been able to provide consistent leadership and playmaking ability, and they have been able to do this over a sustained period of time. This has helped the team to achieve success on the field.

Question 4: What is the legacy of Vikings QBs?

The legacy of Vikings QBs is one of success and leadership. Vikings QBs have helped the team to achieve success on the field, and they have also been great ambassadors for the team and the NFL off the field. Vikings QBs have left a lasting legacy on the team and the NFL, and they will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans.

Question 5: What are some of the challenges that Vikings QBs have faced?

Vikings QBs have faced a number of challenges over the years. These challenges include injuries, inconsistent play, and high expectations. Vikings QBs have also had to deal with the pressure of playing in a cold-weather city. Despite these challenges, Vikings QBs have been able to achieve success on the field. They have shown great resilience and determination, and they have helped the team to overcome adversity.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about Vikings QBs over the years. For more information, please visit the Vikings website or read one of the many books that have been written about the team.

Thank you for your interest in Vikings QBs!

Conclusion

The Minnesota Vikings have had a number of great quarterbacks over the years, including Fran Tarkenton, Tommy Kramer, Randall Cunningham, Daunte Culpepper, Brett Favre, and Kirk Cousins. These quarterbacks have all played a significant role in the Vikings' success, and have helped the team to achieve a number of milestones.

Vikings QBs have helped the team to win games, make the playoffs, and compete for championships. They have also been great ambassadors for the team and the NFL off the field. The legacy of Vikings QBs is one of success and leadership, and they will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans.

As the Vikings look to the future, they will need to find a new quarterback to lead the team. The team has a number of young quarterbacks on the roster, and it will be interesting to see who emerges as the next franchise quarterback. The Vikings have a rich history at the quarterback position, and they will be looking to continue that success in the years to come.