Minnesota Vikings

Vs.

Denver Broncos

August 9, 1969

Cox, Cuozzo Lead Vikings Past Broncs

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL (AP)- Fred Cox' four field goals and Gary Cuozzo's pinpoint passes gave Minnesota two touchdowns as the Vikings shelled the Denver Broncos 26-6 Saturday night in a pro football exhibition game.

Cox kicked field goals of 16, 22, 32 and 48 yards as the National League Vikings, in their home exhibition opener before a crowd of 45,918, rubbed out a 3-0 Bronco edge and beat their second straight American League opponent.

Bobby Howfield kicked 19 and 47-yard field goals for the Broncos, who were in their exhibition opener. His second kick in the third period cut Minnesota's edge to 12-6.

But Cuozzo, who hit on 12 of 17 passes for 175 yards, unleashed a 41-yard completion to falling flanker Bob Grim at the Denver 41 late in the third period.

Bill Brown rolled in for the touchdown from the one three plays later in the fourth period.

Cuozzo passed to John Henderson for 18 yards and Dave Osborn for 14 to set up a four yard toss to Henderson later in the period as the Vikings took a 26-6 lead.

Before Cuozzo got on track in the second half, Bill Thompson of Denver streaked 72 yards with a punt return to the Viking one but tackle Mike Tomesini Broncos missed a sure touchdown.

The Vikings defense, which picked off four passes, bottled up the Broncos after Denver dominated the first period.

Cuozzo replaced starting quarterback Joe Kapp late in the second period when Kapp suffered a knee injury.

Joe Kapp flees the Denver defense.

Scoring Summary

First Quarter

DEN- FG Howfield 19

Second Quarter

MINN- FG Cox 16

MINN- FG Cox 22

MINN- FG Cox 32

Third Quarter

DEN- FG Howfield 47

MINN- FG Cox 48

Fourth Quarter

MINN- Brown 1 run (Cox kick)

MINN- Henderson 3 yard pass from Cuozzo (Cox kick)

Att- 45,918

RETURN