Steelers Secure Remarkable Streak in NFL History
The Pittsburgh Steelers have etched their name into the annals of NFL history with a stellar performance this season, improving their record to 9-3 after a recent victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. This triumph also marks their 21st consecutive season without a losing record, a remarkable achievement that ties them with the legendary 1965-85 Dallas Cowboys for the longest such streak in NFL history.
The Beginning of an Era
The journey of this enduring streak began in 2004, coinciding with the arrival of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger. Drafted as the 11th overall pick, Roethlisberger made an immediate impact, securing victories in his first 15 regular-season starts between 2004 and 2005. This remarkable entry into the league set the tone for a new era of success in Pittsburgh.
At the helm in Roethlisberger’s rookie year was head coach Bill Cowher, who seamlessly integrated the young quarterback into the team’s dynamic. Later, Mike Tomlin would take on the role of head coach, leading the Steelers to 18 straight non-losing seasons, further cementing his place among the league’s most accomplished coaches.
Overcoming Challenges
The Steelers' streak hasn't been without its challenges. In 2013, the team got off to an ominous 0-4 start, and in both 2013 and 2022, they found themselves struggling with a 5-8 record late in the season. Yet, the resilience that has characterized the Steelers under Tomlin’s leadership prevailed, and they maintained their streak of non-losing seasons. The team’s record against division rivals the Browns and Bengals since 2004 stands at an impressive 62-19-1, underscoring their dominance in the AFC North.
During this era, the Steelers have seen three of their players inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, a testament to the caliber of talent that has passed through the franchise. Their peak achievements include Super Bowl appearances in 2005, 2008, and 2010, with glorious victories in the first two of these years.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite the accolades, the Steelers have faced a stretch of seven seasons without a playoff victory, pointing to a gap they hope to bridge moving forward. Nonetheless, they have consistently performed well in tight contests, boasting the best record in games decided by a single score since 2004, while also having maintained the league's top scoring and total defense in that span. Moreover, the team has accumulated the most sacks since 2004, a defensive accolade they proudly uphold.
Their resilience during adversities, such as their longest losing streak of five games in 2009, demonstrates the fortitude that has been the backbone of Pittsburgh football. Surprisingly, even as underdogs on 62 occasions, the Steelers managed to secure victories in 58 of those games, showcasing an ability to defy expectations consistently.
Transition to a New Era
With the retirement of Ben Roethlisberger, the Steelers turned to Kenny Pickett, drafted to be the quarterback of the future. However, Pickett has struggled early in his career, currently holding the lowest touchdown pass percentage in NFL history among quarterbacks with a minimum of 500 attempts. Nonetheless, the historic streak has seen contributions from over 450 players, all sharing in this epic journey of consistency and success.
The familial ties within the team’s ranks speak to the rich tradition and legacy of the Steelers. Both Joey Porter and his son, Joey Porter Jr., have donned the black and gold, symbolizing the enduring nature of the Steelers’ culture. As a testament to the length of this streak, no active NFL player from the 2004 season—when this incredible run began—remains on the field today.
Finally, the Steelers’ ability to consistently outperform the preseason Over-Under win total predictions in 14 of the past 20 seasons further underscores their steadfast commitment to excellence. Amidst evolving team dynamics and changing league landscapes, the Pittsburgh Steelers continue to uphold a tradition of resilience and success, further solidifying their place in the pantheon of NFL greatness.