The Top 10 Greatest Defenses in NFL History

By Edcel Panganiban July 03, 2024 04:19

Photo by Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Some defenses become legendary in the annals of NFL history, casting a shadow over all other football teams during their peak. In this article, we take a deep dive into the top 10 greatest defenses in NFL history, documenting when they were at their best during those years of dominance, who helped make them great key players, what made them unique defining characteristics, and much more.

1. The Pittsburgh Steelers "Steel Curtain": 1970s

Years of Dominance: 1970s

Team greats: Mean Joe Greene, Jack Lambert, Jack Hamel, Mell Blount and Donnie Shell
Records: Gave up just 9.9 points per game in the regular season of '76
Identity: Imposing run stoppers, which are the most talented and deepest of all defenses
Key games: AFC championship game vs. Raiders
Team Record: The Steel Curtain of the 1970s has won four Super Bowls, a feat no one has matched before or since.

2. Baltimore Ravens: 2000

Years of Dominance: 2000

Notable Players: Ray Lewis, Rod Woodson, Tony Siragusa
Statistical accomplishments: Established NFL records for fewest points allowed (165) and, in a 16-game season, Fewest rushing yards allowed(970).
Key Features: Electric, heavy-hitting, and undisputed in the new wave
Key Games: "The Run" Super Bowl trample, allowing 23 points in four playoff games

3. New York Giants - Big Blue Wrecking Crew: 1986-1990

Years of Dominance: 1986-1990

Key Players: Lawrence Taylor, Harry Carson, and Jim Burt
Career Statistical Accomplishments: One of the most comprehensive sapid superstars from an age packed full of gaping offensive talent.
Key Games: Playoffs wins over tough Super Bowl teams
Historical Significance: Was a force in an offensive era, winning marquee playoff matchups against elite teams.

4. Dallas Cowboys "Iron Curtain": 1966-1982

Years of Dominance: 1966-1982

Star Players: Bob Lilly, Randy White, and Too Tall Jones
Notable stat: Consistent top 0.1%-file play across multiple player generations
Longevity: Covered most of the 20th century, so several all-time defenses are performing at their best on this list.

5. The Purple People Eaters Minnesota Vikings: Late 1960s.

Dominance Era: Late 1960s- Late 1970s

Notables: Alan Page, Carl Eller, Paul Krause
Career Stats: Averaged just 3.4 yards per carry in 1969
A dominant pass rush led the league in total defense, passing defense, and rushing defense en route to a World Championship victory.
Legacy: According to Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterbacks, Johnny Unitas and Bart Starr.

6. Miami Dolphins: 1972

Years of Dominance: 1972

Banner Players: Nick Buoniconti, Dick Anderson
Statistical Accolades: Led the only unbeaten team in the Super Bowl era
Defining Traits: Excellent quarterback play with few, if any, premier names

7. Seattle Seahawks "Legion of Boom": 2013

Years of Dominance: 2013

Notable Players: Richard Sherman, Earl Thomas, Kam Chancellor
Statistical accomplishments: Most challenging for the past since 2000

8. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 2002

Years of Dominance: 2002

Prominent Players: Warren Sapp, Derrick Brooks, John Lynch and Ronde Barber
Strength: Pass defense, the same triumvirate as always, and it just works

9. Kansas City Chiefs: 2024

Years of Dominance: 2024

Key Players: Speedy WRs Marquise Brown and Xavier Worthy
Positional Traits: Projected to test pro defenses due to top gear they possess, and that showed up on the field dynamite downfield targets
Best Qualities: Expected to add a new dimension of quickness and playmaking ability to Kansas City's offense.

10. Philadelphia Eagles: 1991

Years of Dominance: 1991

Key Stat: This season, opponents were held below 300 yards in total offense.
The Ability: Allowing under 300 Yards of Total Offense
Significance: Known for top-tier defense in 1991.

These inspirational units display greater depth than mere names regurgitated by sports analysts. Their statistical accomplishments, overarching qualities, and historical backdrop have anchored them in the pantheon of memorable NFL defenses.

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