The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history. They have won six Super Bowls, the most of any team in the AFC. But even the most dedicated Steelers fan might not know these eight interesting facts:
1. The “Steel Curtain” was originally called something else.
The iconic Steelers defense of the 1970s was nicknamed the “Iron Curtain” by the media. However, team owner Art Rooney didn’t like the name because it was too similar to the nickname of the Soviet Union’s national football team. So, he came up with the “Steel Curtain” instead.
2. The Pittsburgh Steelers almost moved to Birmingham, Alabama.
In 1972, the Steelers were on the verge of financial collapse. The team was losing money, and Rooney was considering moving the franchise to Birmingham, Alabama. However, the fans rallied to save the team, and Rooney ultimately decided to keep the Steelers in Pittsburgh.
3. The Steelers have the most Pro Football Hall of Famers of any team.
As of 2023, the Steelers have 34 members in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, more than any other team. Some of the most famous Steelers in the Hall of Fame include Joe Greene, Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, Lynn Swann, Jack Lambert, and Mean Joe Greene.
4. The Terrible Towel was created by a sportswriter.
The Terrible Towel is one of the most iconic symbols in sports. It was created by Myron Cope, a sportswriter for the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, in 1975. Cope was looking for a way to get the fans at Three Rivers Stadium more involved in the game, and he came up with the idea of the Terrible Towel.
5. The Steelers have the longest winning streak in NFL history.
The Steelers won 21 games in a row from 1974 to 1975. This is the longest winning streak in NFL history.
6. The Steelers are the first team to win six Super Bowls.
The Pittsburgh Steelers won Super Bowl VI in 1972, Super Bowl IX in 1975, Super Bowl X in 1976, Super Bowl XIII in 1979, Super Bowl XIV in 1980, and Super Bowl XL in 2006.
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7. The Steelers have the most wins in NFL history.
As of 2023, the Steelers have 704 wins in their history, more than any other team.
8. The Steelers are the most valuable NFL franchise.
According to Forbes, the Steelers are the most valuable NFL franchise, worth an estimated $3.6 billion.
These are just a few of the many interesting facts about the Pittsburgh Steelers. With their rich history and tradition, the Steelers are sure to be a favorite team for many years to come.
