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2. Pittsburgh Steelers (1974-1979)
Championships: 4
Playoff Wins: 13
Record: 67-20-1 (first in the NFL during that span)
Biggest Dynasty Challengers: Cowboys, Raiders
Among quarterbacks Terry Bradshaw is tied with Montana for the most Super Bowl rings, a historical fact we’re reminded of each February when we discuss whether or not that year’s championship quarterbacks are ELITE.
Bradshaw was terrific, no one is doubting that. As was Lynn Swann, who’s also in the Hall of Fame after 51 touchdown receptions over only nine seasons, and three years when he averaged over 18 yards per catch. But the foundation of this Steelers era and four of the franchise’s six Super Bowl wins (which puts them atop the Super Bowl standings) was the Steel Curtain.
Led by “Mean Joe” Greene, the Steelers defense was absolutely menacing. One of that unit’s finest years during the decade was actually a season that didn’t end in a Super Bowl win.
In 1976 the Steelers fell short, losing to Oakland in the conference championship game. But even getting that far was remarkable after Bradshaw went down with neck and wrist injuries, missing four games. Here’s what the Steelers defense did during that stretch: two shutouts, and only 19 total points allowed.
Overall that season the Steelers posted an incredible five shutouts while allowing just 3.8 yards per play.
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