NFL Power Rankings: 30 Greatest Defensive Players Of All-Time
By Robby Sabo
8. Gino Marchetti, DE
- Dallas Texans (1952), Baltimore Colts (1953-64, 1966)
- 1958 and 1959 Super Bowl Champion / 7-Time 1st Team All-Pro
Playing in what was later dubbed “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” Baltimore Colts defensive lineman Gino Marchetti helped in a major way.
While Johnny Unitas and Alan Ameche received all the attention, it was Marchetti and that superb Baltimore defense who shutdown a phenomenal New York Giants offense on that day in 1958.
A wave of defensive lineman grew fame once sacks started to hit the public as a major stat during the 1980’s. Still though, Marchetti will forever be remembered as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history.
Admittedly it’s difficult to gauge Marchetti’s place in history with very little statistical evidence. Remember though, the men who claim Marchetti was the best defensive player of his era mean everything in the world.
He is absolutely deserving of a Top 10 spot.
Next: Number 7