Greatest Colts Backups in Franchise History
Sep 7, 2014; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; A jumbo screen displays in memory of former Miami Dolphins quarterback Earl Morrall prior to a game against the New England Patriots at Sun Life Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Backed-up: Johnny Unitas- 1968-71
Taking it way back for the best backup, back in the Baltimore Colts days the pride and joy was Johnny Unitas, arguably the best quarterback of that era. When Unitas went down in 1968 in the final preseason game, Morrall was called upon to lead the Colts. What would take place that season would put Morrall in the history books.
Morrall threw for 2909 yards, was the league leader in touchdowns with 26, and he led the Colts to a 13-1 record that season. As a backup! He was awarded MVP honors in 1968 and led the Colts to the Super Bowl where they were upset by the New York Jets.
Besides losing in the Super Bowl, you can’t ask for a better season from your backup QB, I mean I can’t recall a backup that ever received the MVP award. Kerry Collins certainly didn’t.
Anyway, Morrall’s performance in 1968 should not only cement him as the best Colts backup, but also as maybe the best backup ever. But that is a totally different story…