By Darin Introduction
On December 27, 1964, a staggering 79,544 fans packed Cleveland Municipal Stadium for the 1964 NFL Championship, anticipating a classic. The powerhouse Baltimore Colts, led by Coach Don Shula and quarterback Johnny Unitas, were heavily favored to win their NFL title. However, what unfolded was an absolute masterclass by the underdog Cleveland Browns, delivering one of the most memorable and dominant performances in championship history. This stunning 27-0 victory remains a legendary moment in Cleveland sports lore.
Author and historian Rich Shmelter joined us in 2025 to chat about this historic game.
Game Summary: An Upset for the Ages
The Colts entered the game with a league-best 12-2 record, expected to dominate the Browns’ defense. The narrative was simple: could Cleveland stop Unitas and his star receiver Raymond Berry? The answer, emphatically, was yes. The first half was a scoreless defensive struggle, frustrating the highly favored visitors.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the third quarter when the Browns’ offense found its rhythm. Quarterback Frank Ryan repeatedly connected with receiver Gary Collins, who torched the Colts secondary for three crucial touchdowns. Collins was deservedly named the game’s MVP. Crucially, the Cleveland defense, utilizing the cold weather and aggressive blitzing, played the game of their lives, completely stifling the Colts’ high-powered attack. Even the great Jim Brown‘s impact, though not measured in huge yardage, kept the Baltimore defense honest, opening up the passing game. The defensive tenacity ensured Unitas and the Colts never stood a chance, culminating in a historic shutout.
Conclusion
The 1964 NFL Championship was a stunning display of defensive fortitude and timely offense that secured the Cleveland Browns their last major NFL title for decades. The stunning 27-0 victory over the heavily favored Colts on December 27, 1964, at Cleveland Municipal Stadium remains the benchmark for Cleveland sports dominance. This game is a vital piece of NFL history, cementing the legacy of this dominant Browns squad.
