Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts trace their origins back to 1953 when they were established as the Baltimore Colts. The team was a charter member of the NFL’s expansion efforts to balance the league. Initially, the team struggled, but they gradually built a competitive roster under the ownership of Carroll Rosenbloom and the guidance of head coach Weeb Ewbank.

The Baltimore Colts Era

The Colts’ first taste of success came in the late 1950s. Led by legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas, the team won NFL Championships in 1958 and 1959. The 1958 Championship game, often referred to as “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” saw the Colts defeat the New York Giants in the first-ever sudden-death overtime game, significantly boosting the popularity of the NFL.

1958 NFL Championship
1959 NFL Championship

The 1960s saw continued success for the Colts, with Unitas at the helm. However, it wasn’t until the 1968 season that they returned to championship glory, winning the NFL Championship and advancing to Super Bowl III. The Colts were heavy favourites but were famously upset by the AFL’s New York Jets, led by quarterback Joe Namath.

1968 NFL Championship

Move to Indianapolis

In 1972, Robert Irsay purchased the Colts and orchestrated a franchise swap with the Los Angeles Rams, acquiring the Rams’ Baltimore-based team and relocating it to Indianapolis in 1984. The move was controversial and occurred under the cover of night to avoid legal battles and local opposition. The Colts’ new home was the Hoosier Dome, later renamed the RCA Dome.

Indianapolis Colts: A New Era

The early years in Indianapolis were challenging, with the team struggling to find its footing. The Colts’ fortunes changed in 1998 when they drafted quarterback Peyton Manning as the first overall pick. Manning’s arrival marked the beginning of a golden era for the franchise. Under head coach Tony Dungy, the Colts became perennial contenders in the 2000s.

The Peyton Manning Era

Manning’s leadership and exceptional play led the Colts to numerous playoff appearances and division titles. In the 2006 season, the Colts secured their first Super Bowl title since the move to Indianapolis, defeating the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI. This victory solidified Manning’s legacy and brought significant acclaim to the franchise.

2006 AFC Championship
Super Bowl XLI (2006)

Post-Manning Transition

After Manning’s departure in 2012, the Colts drafted quarterback Andrew Luck as the first overall pick. Luck quickly demonstrated his talent, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances. However, injuries plagued his career, leading to his unexpected retirement in 2019. Despite this setback, the Colts continued to remain competitive under general manager Chris Ballard and head coach Frank Reich.

Recent Developments

In recent years, the Colts have focused on rebuilding and strengthening their roster. With a strong defence and a balanced offensive approach, the team aims to return to its former glory. The Colts now play their home games at Lucas Oil Stadium, which opened in 2008 and provides a state-of-the-art venue for fans.

Trophies and Championships

NFL Championships

1958 NFL Championship
1959 NFL Championship
1968 NFL Championship

Super Bowl Championships

Super Bowl V (1970)
Super Bowl XLI (2006)

Conference Championships

1968 NFL Championship
1970 AFC Championship
2006 AFC Championship
2009 AFC Championship

Division Championships

1970 AFC East
1975 AFC East
1976 AFC East
1977 AFC East
1987 AFC East
1999 AFC East
2003 AFC South
2004 AFC South
2005 AFC South
2006 AFC South
2007 AFC South
2009 AFC South
2010 AFC South
2013 AFC South
2014 AFC South