The Pittsburgh Steelers franchise is renowned for its strong presence at away games across the country. Steelers fans frequently turn up in droves, often aiming to dominate opposing stadiums with their unwavering support. Their passionate devotion has earned them widespread acclaim throughout the league, establishing them as some of the most dedicated and fervent fans in football history.
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Former Jaguars running back, Fred Taylor (28) running with the football during a regular season game.
One individual who experienced the intensity of Steelers fandom firsthand is former NFL running back Fred Taylor. Having faced the Steelers in numerous heated matchups, Taylor is well acquainted with the challenge of playing against both the team and its formidable supporters.
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Steelers fans wave Terrible Towel's during a home game in Pittsburgh.
His insights were shared during an episode of The Pivot Podcast, hosted by former Steelers’ safety Ryan Clark. Joining them was GloRilla, a rapper, songwriter, and avid Steelers enthusiast, who connected with Clark over their shared love for the team. Adding to the discussion was Taylor himself, whose perspective on Steelers fans echoed the sentiment of admiration and respect.
"We used to play against the Steelers all the time and I know the Terrible Towels. They are probably the best fan base in the entire league. I can say that and people in Jacksonville are going to kill me, but they know how it goes.”
Taylor faced off against the Steelers a total of 11 times throughout his illustrious career. According to data from Stat Muse, across these matchups, he carried the ball an impressive 215 times, accumulating a remarkable 934 yards on the ground while finding the end zone 9 times.
Notably, only four of these encounters took place in Pittsburgh, providing Taylor with a firsthand experience of Steeler Nation's fervor even on their home turf. Despite being away games for the Steelers, the passion of their fans was evident as they showed up in droves, packing stadiums and making their presence felt with resounding cheers that echoed throughout opposing venues.
Regardless of whether you're a die-hard fan or fervently root against the Steelers, one undeniable aspect is the sheer passion that permeates from their supporters. This fervor is deeply rooted in the team's storied history, boasting an impressive six Super Bowl victories. Despite recent struggles, including a playoff win drought since the 2016 season, the bond between the team and its fan base has only intensified.
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Pittsburgh Steelers fans upset after the outcome of a game.
Feeling the weight of expectations, the Steelers' front office has recognized the need for change this offseason. With aspirations of securing a seventh Super Bowl triumph in 2024, they're implementing strategic shifts in their approach, driven by a commitment to delivering the ultimate prize for their devoted fans.
Steelers Were A Dream Team Fred Taylor Hoped To Play For
In a revelation made on the podcast in 2022, Taylor shared that when he was released by the Jaguars, he felt a surge of excitement. This was his opportunity to pursue a long-held desire to join either the New England Patriots or the Steelers. During a conversation with Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin, Taylor even jokingly asked why Tomlin hadn't reached out to him.
"I've been waiting 14 years for this. 2009, the Jacksonville Jaguars released me, and there was only two teams I wanted to hear from: one was the Patriots and the other one was the Pittsburgh Steelers. Why didn't you hit me up, boss?"
While Taylor never achieved his dream of joining the Steelers, he did fulfill another aspiration by becoming part of the team he always admired, the Patriots. After two seasons with them, he retired from the NFL. Although he didn't get to play for the Steelers, the experience of witnessing their passionate fans remains etched in his memory to this day.
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