30 greatest defenses in NFL history
6. ’00 Ravens
The best run defense of all time. Bar none. The Baltimore Ravens of 2000 will often be ranked higher than this, but actually, if the stats are considered, there are many unspoken defenses that eclipse Ray Lewis and his Ravens. Against the run, there has been none like the Ravens. Allowing less than 1,000 yards over the season at an average of 2.7 yards per attempt is other-worldly.
However, for all their run stuffing ability, the Ravens allowed nearly 3,000 yards passing, which was only eighth in the league that season. They also only amassed the fifth most interceptions with 23 with 5.3 yards per attempt through the air, good for only seventh in the league. These are not bad numbers whatsoever, and when coupled with the awesome run game, make a potent defensive unit. Nevertheless, when comparing the greatest defenses of all time, the Ravens do not quite stack up.
Where Ray Lewis and his Ravens came up big, however, was where it mattered, in the postseason. Opposing offenses averaged an absurd four points per game, and they held the Giants to only one offensive touchdown in the Super Bowl. All this dominance was achieved with an average at best offense under Trent Dilfer. Any defense that carries Trent Dilfer to a Super Bowl victory deserves to recognized as one of the best.
Next: 5. '60s Packers