Purple People Eaters

Purple People Eaters (sometimes Purple Gang) is a term for the defensive line of the Minnesota Vikings from the late 1960s to the late 1970s. The term is a reference to a popular song from 1958, the superb efficiency of the defense, and the color of their uniforms. The motto of the Purple People Eaters was "Meet at the quarterback."

• Defensive tackle Alan Page, 9 Pro Bowl Selections (1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976), NFL MVP (1971), Hall of Fame
• Defensive end Carl Eller, 6 Pro Bowl Selections (1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1974) Hall of Fame
• Defensive end Jim Marshall, 2 Pro Bowl Selections (1968, 1969)
• Defensive tackle Gary Larsen, 2 Pro Bowl Selections (1969, 1970)

One of the original members of the defensive line, Gary Larsen, was replaced in the mid-1970s by Doug Sutherland.

The Purple People Eaters were a major factor in the post-season success of the Vikings from the late 1960s through the 1970s. The Purple People Eaters were one of the most identifiable Front Fours in National Football League history, with the "Fearsome Foursome" of the Los Angeles Rams during the 1960s and early 1970s, the "Steel Curtain" of the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1970s, and the "New York Sack Exchange" of the New York Jets during the 1980s. Despite not winning a Super Bowl in any of their 4 trips (Super Bowls IV, VIII, IX and XI), the Vikings' defense is considered arguably among the greatest defense of all time.

Carl Eller and Alan Page were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Many fans, sports writers, players, and coaches argue that Jim Marshall should be in the Hall of Fame as well.