This stat proves that the Steelers’ defensive dominance is more than just a narrative

The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for their excellent defense and it’s not just a reputation. A special statistic from this century proves it.

If you had to use one word to describe every NFL franchise, you could certainly make the case for the Pittsburgh Steelers getting the defense tag.

These black and gold uniforms have been synonymous with strong defense for decades and generations. And when it comes to defense, everyone knows that a good pass rush is essential.

Today, Pittsburgh has TJ Watt, who leads the way defensively. But the reputation for going to quarterback precedes the star defenseman.

The Steelers have by far the most sacks this century

Sunday Night Football dropped a tweet proving that the Steelers are kings when it comes to going to quarterback this century.

No team has sacked more than Pittsburgh’s 986 in the last two decades. The Eagles are a long way behind with 913.

Let’s put that into perspective. The Steelers could record zero sacks in the 2022 season, and Philadelphia would need to set a new NFL record for sacks in a season to tie things. That means getting a sack more than the 84 Bears did with 72.

It’s not like Pittsburgh has had a string of breakaway seasons with a ridiculous sack total. They actually never had more than 60 in a season.

The Steelers got there with consistent production over many, many years, with players like James Harrison and Cameron Hayward leading the way.

It’s an impressive feat and should only grow if Watt continues to drop quarterbacks like there’s no tomorrow.