Steel Curtain Revisited: Steelers' Top Defensive Plays Through The Decades

The Pittsburgh Steelers are not just known for their distinctive black and gold jerseys, but also for a legacy of formidable defense that has defined the franchise over its storied history. Coined in the 1970s, the "Steel Curtain" was the nickname given to the Steelers' fearsome defensive line that dominated the NFL, a tradition that has carried on through the decades. This article revisits some of the top defensive plays across different eras that have left an indelible mark on the team's history and the hearts of its fans. 

The Birth of the Steel Curtain (1970s)

Key Players:

• Joe Greene

• L.C. Greenwood

• Ernie Holmes

• Dwight White

Memorable Plays:

1. 1974 AFC Championship Game vs. Oakland Raiders:

   • Play: Joe Greene’s interception in the 3rd quarter set up a crucial touchdown that helped seal the game.

   • Outcome: Steelers won 24-13, leading to their first Super Bowl appearance.

2. Super Bowl IX vs. Minnesota Vikings:

   • Play: The Steel Curtain defense held the Vikings to only 6 rushing yards, the fewest in Super Bowl history.

   • Outcome: Steelers won 16-6, capturing their first Super Bowl title.

Maintaining Dominance (1980s)

Key Players:

• Donnie Shell

• Jack Lambert

• Jack Ham

Iconic Defensive Moments:

1. 1982 Game vs. Houston Oilers:

   • Play: Jack Lambert’s two interceptions highlighted a dominant defensive performance.

   • Outcome: Steelers secured a 24-10 victory, showcasing their defensive prowess.

2. 1984 Divisional Playoff Game vs. Denver Broncos:

   • Play: The defense recorded a staggering 6 sacks and 3 interceptions.

   • Outcome: Steelers triumphed with a 24-17 victory, proving their resilience.

Resurgence in the 2000s

Key Players:

• Troy Polamalu

• James Harrison

• Casey Hampton

Standout Defensive Plays:

1. Super Bowl XLIII vs. Arizona Cardinals (2009):

   • Play: James Harrison’s 100-yard interception return for a touchdown at the end of the first half remains the longest in Super Bowl history.

   • Outcome: Steelers won 27-23, securing their sixth Super Bowl title.

2. 2008 AFC Championship Game vs. Baltimore Ravens:

   • Play: Troy Polamalu’s interception returned for a 40-yard touchdown late in the 4th quarter sealed the victory.

   • Outcome: Steelers won 23-14, advancing to Super Bowl XLIII.

The Modern Era (2010s-Present)

Key Players:

• T.J. Watt

• Minkah Fitzpatrick

• Cameron Heyward

Remarkable Defensive Highlights:

1. 2017 Game vs. Kansas City Chiefs:

   • Play: With less than 2 minutes left, a crucial sack by Cameron Heyward on third down forced the Chiefs into a difficult fourth and long, which they failed to convert.

   • Outcome: Steelers clinched the game with a 19-13 win.

2. 2020 Game vs. Baltimore Ravens:

   • Play: Minkah Fitzpatrick's end-zone interception in the closing minutes of the game preserved the Steelers' lead.

   • Outcome: Steelers won 28-24, maintaining their unbeaten streak.

The legacy of the Steel Curtain and the Steelers' defensive prowess remains a critical part of the team's identity. By revisiting these top defensive plays, we not only recall the moments of triumph, but also appreciate the strategic brilliance and physical intensity that have defined the Steelers' defense through the decades. Each era brought forward new heroes and memorable plays that have continued to inspire and uphold the tradition of excellence synonymous with Pittsburgh Steelers football.