The Pittsburgh Steelers' zone blitz defense in the 2000s became legendary for how dominant and effective it truly was. Opposing quarterbacks had no idea what was going on in a given play. Even if it was properly dissected, there was always the chance that someone like Troy Polamalu would figure out the play first and go off script to make a splash. That's why that unit was full of All-Pros and Defensive Player of the Year candidates. It was truly a masterpiece that could never be properly replicated by any other unit.
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Former Steelers safety Troy Polamalu talks to his then-defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau while the two stand on the sideline during a professional football game in Pittsburgh, PA.
Polamalu was one of, if not the greatest safety of his generation, and he deserved that title of Hall of Famer. However, legendary Defensive Coordinator Dick LeBeau wanted to make sure everyone on that unit got the credit they deserved. While making a recent appearance on Deebo & Joe, he explained who should get some credit for No. 43 getting a bust in Canton, Ohio.
"Ryan Clark, he should get two of the shoes that Troy got for going into the Hall of Fame because wherever Troy went, Ryan was always there to failsafe him..." LeBeau said. "I don't know how they communicated sometimes, because I watched them, and it wasn't verbally, I guarantee you that. Troy would go like this, and Ryan would go like that," as LeBeau gave a little head nod to show how they communicated.
Polamalu was practically a psychic on the field. His teammates would call him "Baby Jesus" because that's the only explanation they had for why he knew what was going on so often. However, he was not right 100% of the time, so when he did see something, someone still had to cover for him in case he was wrong. More times than not, that man was Ryan Clark.
Beaver County Times
Steelers safeties Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu celebrate as Super Bowl XLIII came to a close against the Arizona Cardinals.
The chemistry that Clark and Polamalu had may never be seen again by two defensive backs in the NFL. Their legendary defensive coordinator couldn't even figure out how they were doing things, so there's no way opposing offenses could figure it out either. That was a big reason why the Steelers won two Super Bowls and made a third during that time frame: the chemistry and ability to get into the mind of the offense.
Without Clark, Polamalu being wrong may have been shown on the game film more, and he wouldn't have as much of a reputation for being a genius as he currently does. Even when the Hall of Famer would come down to trust his gut and make a play, Clark knew what was going on and was able to cover his spot. The quarterback couldn't just throw it where Polamalu was supposed to be, since the ball would still get intercepted.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Steelers safeties Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark became like brothers on and off the field.
Clark may not be seen as a Hall of Famer by many people, but he definitely deserves some level of recognition for his contributions to the legendary fire zone defense. The stat sheet definitely does not tell the whole story, and his great play is constantly overshadowed due to the sheer number of superstars on that unit, with another Hall of Famer coaching them up. He was still a role player that did his job exceptionally.
Steelers Definitely Owe Clark Some Respect And Recognition
In his career, Clark only had one Pro Bowl appearance. That is the only personal accolade he has, so he's not seen as one of the greats. That should not be the case. Without him, who knows if Polamalu has anywhere close to the same level of chemistry and communication level with whoever is playing free safety. He may not have been a psychic, but he was crucial in allowing the psychic of the team to do his thing.
What do you think about LeBeau crediting Clark with helping out with Polamalu's Hall of Fame resume? Let us know on X at @Steelers_ChrisB.
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