Steelers Defense First in 30 Years with Four Straight 50-Sack Seasons

PITTSBURGH — Stephon Tuitt’s third quarter sack of Philip Rivers gave the Steelers defensive unit at least 50 sacks in each of the last four seasons (2017-20). The Steelers are the first team in the NFL to record 50-plus sacks in four consecutive seasons since the New York Giants (1985-1988).

This marks yet another historic achievement for the Steelers defense. Earlier in the game, TJ Watt became the first player in the illustrious history of the Steelers franchise to record 14 or more sacks in multiple seasons while wearing black and gold.

Unlike the time period of the Steelers streak, the Giants were a consistent contender and won a Super Bowl during that span under Bill Parcells in the late 1980’s. After missing the playoffs in both 2018 and 2019, this Steelers team is assured a spot in the 2020 postseason. But just being in the playoffs is not enough on its won to secure receiving the respect of great defenses of the past.