30 greatest defenses in NFL history

7. ’13 Seahawks

The most recent defense on this list, the Seattle Seahawks’ defense of 2013 were truly sensational. Built around the Legion of Boom, consisting of Richard Sherman, Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor, the Seahawks secondary was ferocious. They led the league in interceptions, quarterback rating and passing yards allowed. A scintillating secondary was complimented by a defensive line and linebacker corps that loved to tackle. Defensive end Michael Bennett was an expert pass rusher, while linebacker Bobby Wagner was incredible in coverage, and one of the best open field tacklers around.

Many other defenses on this list can claim that their secondary matches up to that of Seattle, the Seahawks played in an era where the rules were set up to aid passing offenses. On paper, other defenses may well match up, but when pass interference rules are harsher than ever, corners are reprimanded for the slightest bit of contact and quarterbacks like Brees, Rodgers and Manning are throwing for 5,000 yards in a year, the talent of the Seahawks’ secondary shines through.

Unlike the ’02 Bucs, however, the Seahawks defense dominated against the best of offenses. Not since 1990 has the No. 1 offense and defense faced each other in the Super Bowl. In 2013, such a scenario was repeated when Peyton Manning and his Denver Broncos’ pitted themselves against the Legion of Boom. Seattle destroyed the future Hall of Fame quarterback, holding one of the greatest offenses of all time to only 306 total yards and eight points. The Seahawks’ defense was already considered an elite unit, but forcing four turnovers in a demolition of Peyton Manning cemented their place among history’s best.

Next: 6. '00 Ravens