In a triumphant season that saw their record soar to 9-3, the Pittsburgh Steelers have once again etched their name in the annals of NFL history. Their recent victory over the Cincinnati Bengals not only cements another successful season but also extends an extraordinary streak: 21 consecutive years without a losing record. This remarkable achievement ties the Steelers with the legendary 1965-85 Dallas Cowboys for the longest such streak in NFL history.
The Birth of a Streak
The origins of this unprecedented run date back to 2004, the year the Steelers drafted Ben Roethlisberger as the 11th overall pick. Roethlisberger, known for his formidable presence on the field, won his first 15 regular-season starts across the 2004 and 2005 seasons, setting the tone for the team’s ongoing success. Under the guidance of head coach Bill Cowher during Roethlisberger's rookie year, the foundations for this enduring streak were laid with precision and determination.
Mike Tomlin's Enduring Impact
Taking the reins in 2007, head coach Mike Tomlin has been a pivotal figure in maintaining the Steelers' legacy. Tomlin has shepherded the franchise through 18 straight non-losing seasons, demonstrating resilience and adaptability no matter the challenges faced along the way. Notably, the Steelers started with an ominous 0-4 record in 2013 but rallied to avoid a losing season, a testament to Tomlin's leadership. Similarly, in both 2013 and 2022, when their records stood at 5-8 late in the season, the team rallied to end without a losing record.
Consistency Amidst Challenges
Over nearly two decades, the Steelers have showcased a blend of consistency and excellence on the field. Their record against familiar foes, the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals, stands impressively at 62-19-1 since 2004. This dominance is highlighted by their appearances in the Super Bowl in 2005, 2008, and 2010, with triumphant wins in the 2005 and 2008 editions.
The Steelers have also maintained their prowess in defense, consistently finishing as the top scoring and total defense since 2004 and accumulating the most sacks during this period. Even when playing as underdogs, the team has risen to the challenge, winning 58 out of 62 games, defying expectations and demonstrating their resilience.
Adapting to Change
With the retirement of Roethlisberger, the team is in a transition phase, drafting Kenny Pickett as his successor. While Pickett has faced challenges, including holding the lowest touchdown pass percentage in NFL history among quarterbacks with at least 500 attempts, the franchise remains committed to nurturing his potential.
Adding to the rich tapestry of Steelers history, Joey Porter and his son, Joey Porter Jr., have both worn the iconic black and gold, underscoring the deep family ties and tradition within the organization.
A Legacy of Stability and Success
No active NFL player remains from the field in 2004, when this streak began, painting a picture of both resilience and evolution within the Steelers roster. Over 450 players have contributed to this extraordinary journey, each bringing their unique talents to the gridiron. This period of stability is further highlighted by the fact that the Steelers have outperformed preseason Over-Under win total predictions in 14 of the past 20 seasons.
Despite a stretch of seven seasons without a playoff victory and the longest losing streak of five games occurring back in 2009, the Steelers have stood uncompromisingly firm, becoming a model of consistency and competitiveness that other NFL franchises aspire to emulate.
As the 2023 season progresses, the Pittsburgh Steelers continue their legacy of strength and resilience, embracing new challenges while drawing upon a storied history that has solidified their place as a formidable force in the National Football League.