NFL’s Top Defenses Since 1980 Statistically Ranked By Greatness
By Matt Reed
18. 1992 New Orleans Saints: 45 Points
Established in 1966, the New Orleans have been a fairly obscure franchise for much of their time in the NFL. Before 2000, the team had only qualified for the playoffs on four occasions, one of which was in 1992. Led by Pat Swilling and a group of pretty much low-key guys, the Saints defense led the league in various categories, including points allowed per game (12.6) and yards per play (4.3).
The Saints may not have won their first and only Super Bowl until 2009, but their ’92 defense was probably the best in franchise history.
Icons: Pat Swilling, Sam Mills, Jimmy Spencer
17. 2004 Pittsburgh Steelers: 50 Points
The 2004 Pittsburgh Steelers were a fun group to watch. Troy Polamalu’s reckless style made him one of the best safeties not only that season, but of all-time. You can see some of those plays in the video above. Pittsburgh led the league in points allowed, 15.7, while the league average in ’04 was 21.5.
The Steelers have traditionally had ferocious defenses, but the group in 2004 particularly gelled as a unit. Their linebacking corps featured Joey Porter, James Farrior, and a young James Harrison. They were certainly a force to be reckoned with in their day.
Icons: Joey Porter, James Farrior, Troy Polamalu
Next: Two 80s defenses coming up