Unforgettable Upsets in NFL Playoff History: Giants vs Packers and Vikings vs Falcons
The NFL is known for its thrilling playoff moments, but occasionally, upsets occur that leave a lasting impact on both teams and fans. Two such memorable upsets happened in the 2011 divisional round and the 1998 NFC Championship game, respectively. Let's delve into the saga of the New York Giants vs. Green Bay Packers and the Minnesota Vikings vs. Atlanta Falcons.
Giants vs Packers: A Mind-Blowing Mismatch
The 2011 divisional round matchup between the New York Giants and the Green Bay Packers is one of the most unexpected and eye-opening upsets in NFL playoff history. On paper, it seemed like a clear mismatch, with the Packers boasting a spotless record of 15-1 and a superlative defense, led by the league MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers. However, the Giants, despite their 9-7 record, narrowly squeezed into the playoffs due to a weak division and went on to stun the Packers in an impressive 37-20 victory at Lambeau Field.
Eli Manning threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns, with Hakeem Nicks contributing significantly with seven catches for 165 yards. In contrast, Rodgers struggled, completing just 26 of 46 passes for 264 yards, and was sacked four times and fumbled once. This upset led to the Giants winning three consecutive games to advance, beating the Jets, Cowboys, and Falcons. In their subsequent games, they ultimately triumphed over the San Francisco 49ers for another Super Bowl ring. However, the Giants' victory in the 2011 divisional round was undoubtedly the most impressive of their championship run.
Vikings vs Falcons: A Cinderella Story
The 1998 NFC Championship game between the Minnesota Vikings and the Atlanta Falcons is another exemplary upset in NFL playoff lore. The Vikings, with a 15-1 regular season record, were considered a dominant team, boasting an unstoppable offensive attack led by quarterback Randall Cunningham and wide receiver Cris Carter.
However, the Falcons, with a 14-2 record, defied expectations. Led by running back Jamal Anderson and journeyman quarterback Chris Chandler, they overcame a tough division and playoff matchup with the San Francisco 49ers, managing to stay healthy and capitalized on good luck and steady coaching. Despite being considered underdogs, the Falcons forced a fumble and scored to make the game a thriller. The Vikings, known for their perfect kicker Gary Anderson, missed a crucial 39-yard field goal, later tied the game, and went on to lose 30-27 in an overtime that saw Morten Andersen's golden goal saving the day for the Falcons.
Their upset win over the Vikings secured the Falcons' place in the Super Bowl, a match they ultimately lost to the Denver Broncos, who, in John Elway's final game, crushed them 34-19. However, the true lesson from this upset was the impact it had on both fan bases and players. The Vikings, who were favored to reach the Super Bowl, never again got as close to a championship ring as they did in 1998, while the Falcons, fueled by this victory, drafted Michael Vick and continued their journey.
Conclusion
These upsets demonstrate the unpredictable nature of the NFL playoffs, where even the most formidable teams can be knocked down by unexpected, hard-fought battles. The Giants vs. Packers and Vikings vs. Falcons serve as powerful reminders of how a few key plays can change the course of a season and reshape the story of a championship run.
Keywords
NFL Playoff Upset, Giants vs Packers, Vikings vs Falcons