He made his first start in 1966, a loss in the snow at home to the expansion Atlanta Falcons on December 4. Following the 1966 season, Tarkenton demanded to be traded and was sent to the New York Giants for multiple draft picks and Van Brocklin stepped down as head coach.
In 1966, Tarkenton made his first appearance in a game against the Atlanta Falcons at home on December 4th. Following that season, he requested a trade and was sent to the New York Giants for multiple draft picks. Van Brocklin stepped down as head coach after this event.