The Steelers' Streak of Success: A Historical Overview
The Pittsburgh Steelers have once again solidified their place in NFL history by extending their non-losing season streak to 21 years. With their recent victory over the Cincinnati Bengals pushing their record to 9-3, the team has ensured yet another winning season. This extraordinary run matches the hallmark legacy of the 1965-85 Dallas Cowboys, signifying two decades of unparalleled consistency in the league.
Since the streak's inception in 2004, Pittsburgh has emerged as the epitome of competitive stability. This remarkable journey began the moment they drafted quarterback Ben Roethlisberger as the 11th overall pick. Roethlisberger's entry marked the start of an era that rapidly saw success. With Bill Cowher at the helm, the young quarterback embarked on a historic start, clinching victories in his first 15 regular-season games across the 2004 and 2005 seasons.
As the torch was passed from Cowher to Mike Tomlin in 2007, expectations were not only met but exceeded. Under Tomlin's stewardship, the Steelers have impressively maintained 18 consecutive non-losing seasons, underscoring his adept leadership and resilience in the face of adversity. This fortitude was notably on display during their 2013 campaign when the team, after a troubling 0-4 start, managed to salvage their season—one of the several instances they clawed back from a dire 5-8 late-season scenario, as seen in both 2013 and 2022.
The Steelers’ resilience isn’t limited to their season records. Within division rivalries, they boast a dominating 62-19-1 record against the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals since 2004. Their ability to outperform during pivotal matches, particularly close contests, is reflected in the best record established in games determined by a single score since the streak's inception. Moreover, they maintained the top ranking in both scoring and total defense, while also accumulating the most sacks across the league during this period.
A hallmark of the Steelers’ success over the last two decades has been their knack for outstripping expectations. Defying the odds, they have managed to surpass the preseason Over-Under win total predictions in 14 of the previous 20 seasons, underscoring their ability to excel when doubted. A testament to their mettle is also seen in their 62 games played as underdogs, from which they emerged victoriously in 58 instances.
The team’s journey over the past two decades has also been marked by individual accomplishments, as reflected by their contribution to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, with three players from this era earning induction. However, amidst all the high points, there have been hurdles. Despite their Super Bowl appearances in 2005, 2008, and 2010—winning two of these—the Steelers have faced a stretch of seven seasons without a playoff victory, an aspect that haunts the otherwise storied franchise.
Change is an inevitable force, and nowhere is this more evident than in Pittsburgh’s succession plans. As Ben Roethlisberger retired, Kenny Pickett has taken up the mantle, aiming to guide the team in its next chapter. Drafted with hopes of building upon the legacy, Pickett's tenure has seen mixed results, highlighted by having the lowest touchdown pass percentage in NFL history among quarterbacks with a minimum of 500 attempts. His development and potential future impact in a Roethlisberger-sized shadow remain focal points for the organization and its fervent fan base.
Throughout this continued evolution, some stories circle back, as in the case of Joey Porter and his son, Joey Porter Jr., both donning the Steelers’ colors in different decades, a father-son legacy that resonates with the franchise’s emphasis on continuity and tradition. On this journey of change, the notion of continuity never waivers, as proven by more than 450 players contributing over the years and the absence of any active NFL player from the 2004 roster remaining today.
As the Steelers look forward, grappling with the complexities of modern NFL landscapes, the bedrock of their longevity and success remains grounded in an unwavering pursuit of excellence and adaptability. This historic and ongoing streak is emblematic of a larger Steelers philosophy—a commitment to grit, growth, and greatness. Resounding victories and records punctuate their history; yet, it is they who prepare intensely for the battles yet to come. The Saints will have moments to celebrate, but above all, they prepare for the symphony of the seasons yet to unfold, never losing the faith that defines their incredible legacy.