The Minnesota Vikings haven’t had a ton of success in recent years, with only seven playoff appearances since 2000 they are contenders less than half of the time–and even then they are usually one-and-done. But this year things appear to be different.

With one of the top defenses in the league and an embarrassment of riches on the offensive side of the ball, they have a legit shot at being the first true home team for the Super Bowl. While this season has been a welcome reprieve from mediocrity, the Vikes are no strangers to big moments. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights in Purple and Gold history.

Fran Tarkenton Dominates in His First Appearance

Rookie Fran Tarkenton wasn’t expected to do much in his first season. Set to back up George Shaw in what was a miserable 1961 season before the good times would come, Tarkenton came off the bench in the second half against the rival Chicago Bears, trailing and expecting to lose. But he took the game over, tossing five touchdowns and adding 250 yards to beat the Bears 37-13, giving a taste of of the future.

Joe Kapp Throws for 449 Yards

Speaking of dominant quarterback performances, Joe Kapp had one of his own against the Baltimore Colts in late September of 1969. Getting an incredible 449 yards through the air, Kapp absolutely shredded the ponies, adding seven touchdowns against the previous second place team. It’s a crime that few outside of the North Star State remember Kapp, because dude had it going on when he needed to.

AP Runs for 296 Yards

Adrian Peterson was an unstoppable beast when he got going. The future Hall-of-Famer entered the league in 2007, and he made his presence known a few months later when he ran for 296 years on 30 carries against the San Diego Chargers on November 4, 2007. “All Day” entered the record books that day, and gave the first taste of his record-breaking career to come.

The Purple People Eaters

When we say the Purple People Eaters, we don’t mean the absurd Sheb Wooley song that’s now in your head despite the fact that you don’t even know the lyrics. No, we are talking about the defensive line of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s who shredded opposing offenses–they garnered 44 sacks in 1968 alone. Made Up of Alan Page, Carl Eller, Jim Marshall, Gary Larsen, and later Doug Sutherland, these dude ate everybody’s lunch. In another case of injustice to the franchise, only two–Page and Eller–are in Canton right now.