30 greatest defenses in NFL history
11. ’90 Giants
The 1990 Giants went on to win one of the greatest Super Bowls in history against the best offense of the era. Jim Kelly and his Bills were slaughtering opposing defenses, and would do for years to come. In a contrast of styles, the Bills no huddle, high-octane, quick strike offense against Bill Parcell’s physical, suffocating Giants’ defense, it was the New Yorkers that came out on top.
Throughout the year, the Giants had the best defense in terms of points allowed. Surrendering 13.2 points per game is not particularly exceptional, while it was the best in the league. However, the strength of their schedule shed light on the quality of such a unit. The Giants played against seven play off teams that year, including six matches against the top five scoring offenses.
Unlike many defenses of the ’70s and ’80s, the Giants dominated by not pursuing the quarterback with aggressive blitz packages, but rather employing soft two-deep coverage that didn’t allow any big plays. They were also led by one of the greatest defensive players of all time in Hall of Fame linebacker Lawrence Taylor, who, on his day, was a one man wrecking ball. The Giants were the best defense in an offensively dominated era, winning the 1990 title by beating the best offense in the business. A truly great defense.
Next: 10. '73 Dolphins