What Year Did The Indianapolis Colts Start

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The Colts: From Horseshoe to Hoosiers (and a little trivia surprise!)

Ah, the Indianapolis Colts. A team steeped in gridiron glory, with a fan base as loyal as a labrador retriever with a fresh tennis ball. But here's a question that might have you scratching your helmet (metaphorically, of course): when did the Indianapolis Colts actually start?

Hold Your Horses (hoes)! A Baltimore Backstory

Here's the twist that'll leave you shouting "Hut hut!" The Indianapolis Colts, as we know them today, didn't actually begin in Indianapolis! Believe it or not, the team's roots trace back to 1953, way up in Baltimore, Maryland. Back then, they were known as the Baltimore Colts, galloping onto the scene as a brand new NFL franchise.

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They enjoyed a long and successful run in Baltimore, even winning Super Bowl V in 1970 (sorry Dolphins fans!). But in a move that sent shockwaves through the NFL world, team owner Robert Irsay decided to relocate the Colts to Indianapolis in 1984.

Horseshoes and Hoosiers: A New Era Begins

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And so, the Indianapolis Colts were born! While some Baltimore fans might have shed a tear (or two, or ten), the Colts quickly embraced their new home and Hoosier hospitality. They built a passionate fanbase, drafted legendary players like Peyton Manning, and even brought home another Super Bowl victory in 2006 (that one's for you, Indy!).

So, the official answer to our burning question is 1953, but with an asterisk the size of Texas. The Colts' history is a fascinating mix of two great cities, and their legacy as a team continues to grow stronger with every season.

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Bonus Fun Fact: Did you know the Indianapolis Colts almost had a different nickname? Yep, during the early stages of the team's move, there were suggestions for names like the "Madden Men" (after legendary coach John Madden) and the "Indians." Thankfully, those ideas got tackled harder than a fumble recovery!

What Year Did The Indianapolis Colts Start
What Year Did The Indianapolis Colts Start

How Colts Fan You Are? A (Slightly Silly) Quiz

Think you're a Colts superfan? Take this quick quiz to see if you know your horseshoe history:

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  1. What iconic stadium do the Colts call home? a) The Horseshoe Hilton (wrong, but kinda catchy!) b) Lucas Oil Stadium (ding ding ding!) c) The Hoosier Dome (not quite, that was a nickname for the RCA Dome)

  2. Which quarterback led the Colts to victory in Super Bowl XLI? a) Johnny Unitas (Colts legend, but wrong era!) b) Peyton Manning (you got it!) c) Andrew Luck (great player, but no Super Bowl wins)

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How to Up Your Colts Fan Game

Want to become the ultimate Colts fanatic? Here are some quick tips:

  1. How to paint your face like a Colts fan: Grab some blue and white paint (or temporary face tattoos!), and get creative! Think stripes, horseshoes, or even Andrew Luck's glorious beard (RIP).
  2. How to tailgate like a champion: Indianapolis is known for its incredible tailgating scene. Pack your tastiest snacks, fire up the grill, and show off your Colts spirit!
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Quick References
TitleDescription
wishtv.comhttps://www.wishtv.com
indystar.comhttps://www.indystar.com
hoosierhistorylive.orghttps://www.hoosierhistorylive.org
nps.govhttps://www.nps.gov/state/in/index.htm
bizjournals.comhttps://www.bizjournals.com/indianapolis

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