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NFL’s Top Defenses Since 1980 Statistically Ranked By Greatness

By Matt Reed

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2. 1986 Chicago Bears: 85 Points

The ’85 Bears are one of the most memorable teams in NFL history, but Mike Ditka’s 1986 squad was actually better from a defensive perspective. Chicago allowed a stingy 4.1 yards per play, while also giving up the fewest points per game (11.7). Ultimately, the team’s defense carried them to a 14-2 regular season record, as the offense, other than Walter Payton, struggled for much of the season.

The Bears gave up a total of 16 touchdowns in 1986 (12 passing and four rushing), averaging out to one per game. Chicago’s roster was headlined by Mike Singletary and Dave Duerson, who recorded seven sacks and six interceptions from the strong safety position.

Icons: Mike Singletary, Dan Hampton, Dave Duerson

And the greatest defense of the last 35 seasons is…

1. 2000 Baltimore Ravens: 85 Points

Remember that these rankings are solely based on statistical analysis. The ’85 Bears and various teams in Pittsburgh’s “Steel Curtain” days were considered, but when it comes down to it, this Ravens team dominated almost every major defensive category.

Want to know how good this defense was? The Ravens allowed the fewest points in a single-season in 2000, conceding 165. The team allowed the fewest rushing yards in a season (970), which amounts to a whopping 60.6 per game. Their most incredible feat though was allowing 10.3 points per game, the fewest in NFL history.

Although Ray Lewis was alleged to have several off the field issues throughout his career, there was no doubting his physical abilities, which greatly attributed to his team’s success. Behind a solid running game and Baltimore’s phenomenal defense, the team ran over the New York Giants en route to a 34-7 Super Bowl win. The only points the Ravens conceded in that Super Bowl came off of a Ron Dixon kickoff return.

Icons: Ray Lewis, Rod Woodson, Sam Adams

Next: All 32 NFL Franchises Statistically Ranked In Order Of All-Time Greatness

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