Impossible is not a word often associated with sports, but there are moments in history that redefine what is achievable.
Think of things like Liverpool’s' come-from-behind Champions League win in 2005. Or the famous 438 one-day international win by South Africa over Australia. Leicester City winning the Premier League qualifies as well.
In 2022, on this very day, the Minnesota Vikings accomplished the seemingly impossible, as they erased a 33-0 halftime deficit to beat the Indianapolis Colts 39-36.
This iconic game goes down in history as the largest comeback in NFL history.
DAZN News relives this extraordinary feat and other incredible aspects of the game.
Insurmountable halftime deficit
The Vikings found themselves down 33-0 at halftime, with everything seemingly going wrong.
The Colts' offense capitalised on turnovers, blocked punts, and strong defensive play, and left the Vikings stunned and their fans silent.
It seemed like the game was over before it had truly begun.
Stephen Maturen/Getty Images)
What sparked the comeback?
The Vikings flipped the script in the second half with a combination of relentless offense and tightened defensive pressure.
Kirk Cousins, the Vikings’ quarterback, threw for 460 yards and four touchdowns in the game. The team refused to give up, and every drive chipped away at what initially seemed an insurmountable lead.
The key players behind the magic
Kirk Cousins: Leading from the front, Cousins’ passing accuracy and ability to deliver under pressure was pivotal.
Justin Jefferson: The dynamic wide receiver came alive in the second half, contributing critical plays to fuel the comeback.
Dalvin Cook: Cook’s electrifying 64-yard touchdown reception in the fourth quarter was one of the standout moments, bringing the Vikings within striking distance of tying the game.
The turning point: Greg Joseph’s winning field goal
The game culminated in overtime with Greg Joseph’s 40-yard field goal, sealing the historic 39-36 victory.
The Vikings not only made history but also secured the NFC North title with this remarkable win.
Why this comeback matters
The game immediately entered the annals of NFL history.
It overtook the Buffalo Bills' 1993 Wild Card win over the Houston Oilers, which featured a 32-point comeback, as the greatest in league history.
Fans, analysts, and players alike still marvel at the sheer improbability of what unfolded that day.
This game was not just a victory for the Vikings it was a reminder of why we follow sport and back teams - it's these types of unpredictable, magical moments that make sports so captivating.
From crushing despair to unbelievable triumph, December 12, 2022, will forever be remembered as the day the Vikings made the impossible possible.
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