Following his collegiate success, Ameche entered the NFL when he was drafted by the Baltimore Colts as the third overall pick in the 1955 NFL Draft. His impact was immediate; in his rookie season, he led the league in rushing yards and was named the NFL Rookie of the Year. Ameche's powerful running style and ability to break tackles made him a formidable force on the field, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl in each of his first four seasons.
One of the most iconic moments of Ameche's career came during the 1958 NFL Championship Game, often referred to as "The Greatest Game Ever Played." In this historic matchup between the Baltimore Colts and the New York Giants, Ameche scored the winning touchdown in sudden-death overtime, securing a 23-17 victory for the Colts. This game not only elevated Ameche's status in the league but also played a significant role in popularizing the NFL, as it was one of the first games to be nationally televised.
Throughout his career with the Colts, Ameche was known for his durability and consistency. He played alongside legendary quarterback Johnny Unitas, forming a dynamic offensive duo that was difficult for opposing defenses to contain. Ameche's contributions to the Colts' success during this period were instrumental in establishing the team as a powerhouse in the NFL.
Despite his relatively short career, which lasted only six seasons, Ameche left a lasting legacy in the world of professional football. He retired after the 1960 season due to injuries, but his achievements on the field continued to be celebrated long after he hung up his cleats. In recognition of his outstanding career, Ameche was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1975.
Off the field, Ameche was known for his business acumen and entrepreneurial spirit. After retiring from football, he became involved in various business ventures, including the successful Gino's Hamburgers chain, which he co-founded with teammate Gino Marchetti.
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