NFL · AFC South
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Indianapolis Colts history & legends
The Colts began play in Baltimore in 1953 and became one of the NFL’s signature franchises behind quarterback Johnny Unitas. In March 1984 the team famously moved overnight to Indianapolis. Today the Colts compete in the AFC South.
Championship history
The Baltimore Colts won the 1958 NFL Championship in overtime against the New York Giants, a game often called “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” and repeated as champions in 1959. They won Super Bowl V after the 1970 season. In Indianapolis, Peyton Manning led the Colts to a win over the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI after the 2006 season. The Colts also reached Super Bowl III and Super Bowl XLIV but lost both.
Best players in Colts history
- Johnny Unitas – Hall of Fame quarterback and one of the greatest players in NFL history.
- Peyton Manning – Hall of Famer who won four NFL MVP awards in Indianapolis and Super Bowl XLI.
- Marvin Harrison – Hall of Fame receiver and Manning’s top target.
- Edgerrin James – Hall of Fame running back and two-time rushing champion.
- Reggie Wayne – Hall of Fame receiver and a key part of the Super Bowl XLI team.
- Dwight Freeney – Hall of Fame pass rusher known for his devastating spin move.
- Raymond Berry – Hall of Fame receiver and Unitas’ favorite target in the 1958 title game.
- John Mackey – Hall of Fame tight end who helped define the modern position.
- Gino Marchetti – Hall of Fame defensive end from the 1950s championship teams.
Biggest rivalries
The Peyton Manning vs. Tom Brady era made the New England Patriots the Colts’ most famous rival. In the AFC South, Indianapolis battles the Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans and Jacksonville Jaguars twice every season.
