1983 Pittsburgh Steelers Season
Season Summary: The 1983 Steelers started a surprising 9-2 behind a tough defense and strong running game. But as the season wore on, Cliff Stoudt struggled badly.
Often looking lost under pressure, Stoudt was sacked a staggering 51 times (still a team record) and threw 21 picks to just 12 TDs. Fans booed relentlessly. The defense held its own, but the offense collapsed, capped by the infamous "Thanksgiving Massacre" in Detroit.
Enter Terry Bradshaw. With the season circling the drain, Bradshaw made a dramatic return in week 15, instantly injecting life into the team. He led two impressive drives capped by TD passes, sealing a must-win game before re-injuring his elbow. It was his final game, but he went out on a high note, saving the
Pittsburgh backed into the playoffs at 10-6 and got blown out by the Raiders. The year ended with more questions than hope, and the curtain quietly fell on a legendary era.