By Darin Introduction
Just one year after the legendary “Greatest Game Ever Played,” the Baltimore Colts and the New York Giants met again to decide the 1959 NFL Championship title. This time, the stakes were even higher: the Colts were seeking to validate their dynasty, while the Giants were hungry for revenge. Played on a chilly Sunday, December 27, 1959, this rematch wasn’t just another game; it was a demonstration of a passing offense taking total control of the league. If you’re looking for a pivotal moment in NFL history, this contest at Memorial Stadium showcased the sheer talent that defined the era. Read on to uncover how Johnny Unitas and the Colts solidified their back-to-back championship reign.
Historian Jim Johnson joined us in our 2025 quest to learn about each of the pre-Super Bowl NFL Title games.
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The atmosphere at Memorial Stadium in Baltimore on that December afternoon was electric, drawing a massive crowd of 57,545 in attendance. Fans anticipated another overtime thriller, but the 1959 NFL season finale provided a clearer display of dominance. The New York Giants, led by quarterback Y.A. Tittle and dynamic halfback Frank Gifford, struggled to keep pace with the Colts’ high-octane offense. The Giants managed an early lead, but the Colts’ relentless attack quickly took hold.
The game quickly turned into a showcase for the Baltimore offense. Unitas efficiently moved the ball, connecting with key receivers and allowing the Colts’ running game to control the clock. The Giants’ offense, meanwhile, was plagued by turnovers and was unable to penetrate the Colts’ resolute defense consistently. By the final whistle, the Baltimore Colts (2) had secured a convincing victory over the New York Giants with a final score of 31–16. This victory secured the Colts’ second consecutive league title, transforming them from champions to a bona fide dynasty and setting a new standard for championship football in the pre-Super Bowl era. The performance served as a powerful reminder that the Colts were, unequivocally, the team to beat in the NFL heading into the new decade.
Conclusion
The 1959 NFL Championship game might not be remembered with the same dramatic flair as its predecessor, but its significance is undeniable. The decisive Colts vs Giants victory—31–16—confirmed the enduring legacy of a team built for success, a team whose stars would influence the league for generations. This game was the crowning moment of a dynasty, securing the NFL title game for Baltimore for the second year running and cementing Johnny Unitas’s place among the greats. It remains a fascinating chapter in NFL history.
