NFL’s Top Defenses Since 1980 Statistically Ranked By Greatness

14. 1980 Philadelphia Eagles: 50 Points

This list has already featured one 1980s Eagles defense, but the 1980 team found slightly more success. Leading the league with 13.9 per allowed per game, Philadelphia’s defense helped bring this team to prominence. In the first of the franchise’s two Super Bowl appearances, they fell to the Oakland Raiders. That shouldn’t and doesn’t take away what this defense did though.

Philadelphia’s rush defense conceded 0.5 rushing touchdowns per game, half of the league average (1.0). Their 4.3 yards per play, ranked them first in the NFL, tied with the Buffalo Bills.

Icons: Charlie Johnson, Jerry Robinson, Randy Logan

13. 2001 Chicago Bears: 50 Points

The Chicago Bears historically boast talented defenses, and the 2001 team wasn’t any different. Chicago conceded league best 203 points over the course of the season, 12.7 per game. Their rush defense, led by Brian Urlacher, gave up 82.1 rushing yards per game, second in the league. The team also ranked second in rushing touchdowns given up (6).

The Bears also had three defensive touchdowns, two fumble returns and one interception return. Chicago gave up the least passing touchdowns per game (0.8), which just proved how talented of an all-around defense they had.

Icons: Brian Urlacher, Mike Brown, Ted Washington

Next: Two historically fierce defenses