1996 Pittsburgh Steelers Season

Season Summary: The 1996 Steelers were defined by the arrival of Jerome Bettis, who instantly became the perfect Pittsburgh running back. Acquired in what proved to be the best trade in franchise history, "The Bus" was punishing yet remarkably agile for a big back. He rumbled for 1,431 yards and gave the offense an identity, allowing them to get by with career backup Mike Tomczak after losing O'Donnell to free agency.

Pittsburgh finished 10-6, winning the AFC Central with Bettis and Yancey Thigpen carrying the load on offense. The defense again ranked among the league’s best: Rod Woodson returned to form with 6 INTs, joining Carnell Lake in the Pro Bowl. Chad Brown earned All Pro honors filling in after Greg Lloyd tore his ACL in Week 1, and Levon Kirkland stepped into a leadership role, delivering a Pro Bowl season of his own.

The Steelers thrashed the Colts 42-14 in the Wild Card round before getting run over by Curtis Martin in the New England fog. Despite the disappointing finish, the arrival of Bettis gave the Steelers the perfect centerpiece for the future.