1970 Divisional Playoff vs Browns
The final roar of Baltimore: Johnny Unitas leads a perfect shutout to send the Colts to the Super Bowl.
The 1970 AFC Divisional Playoff between the Baltimore Colts and the Cleveland Browns stands as a defining moment in franchise history, marking the final chapter of an era before the team's relocation to Indianapolis. Played at Memorial Stadium on December 26, 1970, this high-stakes contest pitted two of the NFL's most storied franchises against each other in what would be Baltimore's last playoff appearance for decades. It was a clash of titans featuring Hall of Fame quarterback Johnny Unitas and the legendary Browns defense that had dominated the league throughout the 1960s.
- Date
- December 26, 1970
- Location
- Memorial Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland
- Result
- Baltimore Colts 34, Cleveland Browns 0
- MVP
- Johnny Unitas (Colts)
- Historical Context
- Last playoff game played by the Colts in Baltimore
Lore & Background
The narrative of the game is one of total dominance by the Colts' offense against a Browns defense that had rarely been held scoreless in their history. Unitas, often criticized for his age and perceived decline, silenced all doubters with a masterclass performance. He orchestrated the scoring drives with surgical precision, exploiting the secondary and finding receivers like Raymond Berry's successors in open space. The shutout was particularly stinging for Cleveland, as it highlighted the Colts' evolution from a run-heavy team to a balanced powerhouse capable of controlling any game.
In Their Own Story
The air inside Memorial Stadium bit cold, carrying the scent of popcorn and damp wool coats. On the field, Johnny Unitas stood in the pocket, his jersey number 19 stark against the gray sky. He scanned the defense, his eyes locking onto a sliver of daylight downfield. With a flick of his wrist that had defined a decade, he launched the ball. It spiraled perfectly, cutting through the wind to land in waiting arms for another touchdown. In that moment, the history books were being rewritten, not with a whimper, but with a resounding shutout.
Reader's Guide
The occasion was the AFC Divisional Playoff on December 26, 1970, where the Baltimore Colts hosted the Cleveland Browns at Memorial Stadium. The game is remembered for its lopsided nature and the historic significance of it being the final playoff contest played by the franchise in Baltimore before their move to Indianapolis. What happened was a complete offensive dismantling of the Browns. Johnny Unitas led the Colts to a 34-0 victory, throwing two touchdown passes and rushing for one himself. The Colts' defense held Cleveland's offense scoreless, stifling their running game and forcing turnovers that kept the momentum firmly in Baltimore's favor throughout all four quarters. It is remembered today as 'The Last Dance' of the Baltimore era. While the team would eventually move north to Indianapolis later that year, this victory sent them to Super Bowl V. The shutout performance by Unitas served as a perfect capstone to his tenure in Baltimore, proving he could still lead when it mattered most before the franchise began its new chapter.
Did You Know?
- This was the last playoff game ever played by the Colts in Baltimore, Maryland.
- The 34-0 scoreline marked one of the most dominant performances in Colts playoff history.
- This victory propelled the Colts to Super Bowl V, where they would face the Dallas Cowboys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of the 1970 Divisional Playoff between the Colts and Browns?
The Baltimore Colts defeated the Cleveland Browns with a commanding score of 34-0. This decisive victory sent the Colts to their first Super Bowl appearance.
Where and when did this historic playoff game take place?
The matchup occurred on December 26, 1970, at Memorial Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. It stands as the final playoff contest ever played by the franchise while based in Baltimore.
Who was named the MVP of this game and why?
Hall of Fame quarterback Johnny Unitas earned the Most Valuable Player award for leading a perfect offensive performance. His command of the team resulted in a complete shutout against Cleveland's legendary defense.
Why is this specific game considered so important to Colts history?
This contest marked the end of an era, serving as Baltimore's last playoff appearance before the team relocated to Indianapolis decades later. It also showcased the franchise's dominance by shutting out a historically great Browns squad.
How did the Browns' defense perform in this match?
Despite being known as one of the league's most dominant defensive units throughout the 1960s, the Browns were held scoreless for the entire game. They failed to record a single point against Unitas and the Colts.