The Vikings achieved 13 regular-season wins for the second-highest total in franchise history, behind 15 in 1998.
On Monday morning, however, 99 — going on 100 — was relevant.
Millie Wall will turn 100 years old in 2018, and she received an epic early birthday gift from her favorite team to help her celebrate the milestone. As the Vikings look to open their postseason at U.S. Bank Stadium and **capitalize on home-field advantage**, Millie – who has supported the team since its founding in 1961 – will be in attendance.
In a video posted by her granddaughter, Ashley Wall, Millie opened a letter from the Vikings inviting her to attend her first-ever playoff game.
As she read the message aloud, Millie's voice cracked just a bit when she realized the invitation.
"You've gotta be kidding," Millie said in disbelief.
When Millie's jaw dropped, family members cheered in the background – more than 30 of them.
After years of watching Millie's dedication to the Vikings, it was a family affair to present her with such a special surprise.
"Probably about 32 of us walked in," said Ashley. "She immediately was like, 'What is going on? Something is happening.' "
If the Vikings are playing on a Sunday afternoon, it's likely you'll find Millie posted up in her living room, sipping a screwdriver and watching the game. She emotionally invests herself in the team, and it's not uncommon to see a passionate Millie throw a brick – don't worry, it's made out of foam – at her television set.
"It's funny, she actually tied a string to it because she got tired of going to retrieve it," Ashley said with a laugh. "But even through the ups and downs, she's been a fan through it all."
Added Ashley: "This really is a dream come true for her to attend her first playoff game."
Millie has attended a handful of Vikings games dating back to the old Met and even a road trip here and there, including to Lambeau Field "back in the day." But she hasn't yet experienced game day at U.S. Bank Stadium.
Ashley, who will be in attendance with Millie on Sunday when the Vikings take on the Saints, said she's looking forward to sharing the experience.
"I've been thinking about it," Ashley said. "Obviously this is a very exciting season for the Vikings, and I was just thinking, 'Should I be watching the game on the field, or should I be watching my grandma's reaction to that game?'
"I think it's going to just be a really great experience," Ashley continued. "We're so excited as a family to watch her and watch everything come to life."
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