September 18, 1966: Johnny Unitas Breaks NFL TD Record with 4 Touchdown Passes Against the Vikings

On September 18, 1966, Johnny Unitas, the legendary quarterback for the Baltimore Colts, carved his name into NFL history once again. Facing the Minnesota Vikings, Unitas led the Colts to a decisive 38-23 victory, throwing four touchdown passes along the way. But this was no ordinary game. With those four touchdown passes, Unitas surpassed Y.A. Tittle to become the league’s all-time leader in touchdown passes, reaching 212 for his career.

Unitas’s performance that day was a masterclass in precision and control. Known for his calm demeanor under pressure, Unitas orchestrated a brilliant offensive display, picking apart the Vikings’ defense with accurate passes and expert play-calling. Each of his touchdown passes in the game underscored why he was already considered one of the greatest quarterbacks in the history of the sport. His 212th touchdown pass marked a new era, one where Unitas would stand alone at the top of the record books.

The significance of this moment went far beyond the numbers. Unitas revolutionized the quarterback position, transforming it from a physically demanding role to one that required intelligence, strategy, and cool-headed leadership. He became known for his ability to read defenses, adjust plays on the fly, and make pinpoint throws in critical moments. This game, in which he broke Tittle’s record, was a shining example of all those qualities.

By the time his illustrious career ended, Unitas had thrown 290 touchdown passes, a record that stood for nearly a decade before Fran Tarkenton eventually surpassed it. However, Unitas’s 1966 achievement is remembered as a defining moment in NFL history.

Johnny Unitas didn’t just break records; he set the standard for what a quarterback should be. His milestone against the Vikings was a significant achievement in a career filled with unforgettable moments and a legacy that continues to inspire football players and fans alike.