5 Most Iconic Moments in Browns-Steelers Historic NFL Rivalry
The Browns-Steelers rivalry has produced many memorable moments throughout NFL history. While Cleveland dominated early with a 31-9 record through 1970, Pittsburgh currently leads the all-time series 77-61-1. Here are the five most defining moments of this historic rivalry:
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Browns' Record-Setting Victory (1989) Cleveland delivered the largest margin of victory in the rivalry's history, crushing Pittsburgh 51-0. The Browns scored through defense with Clay Matthews and David Grayson each returning fumbles for touchdowns, followed by rushing touchdowns from Tim Manoa, Mike Oliphant, and another Grayson pick-six.
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First Playoff Meeting (1994) The teams' first postseason matchup came in the AFC Divisional Round, with Bill Belichick's Browns falling to Pittsburgh 29-9. The Steelers dominated from the start, building a 24-3 halftime lead they never relinquished.
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Otto Graham's Comeback (1952) Hall of Fame quarterback Otto Graham led an impressive comeback after Cleveland trailed 20-7 in the third quarter. Following a touchdown pass to Dub Jones, Graham connected with Sherman Jones on a 57-yard score to secure a thrilling 21-20 victory.
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The Turkey Jones Tackle (1976) In one of the rivalry's most iconic plays, Browns defensive end Joe "Turkey" Jones violently threw Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw head-first to the turf. The hit sidelined Bradshaw for six games and Cleveland won 18-16.
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AFC Wild Card Shootout (2003) Their second playoff meeting produced an instant classic. Cleveland led 33-21 in the fourth quarter before Tommy Maddox orchestrated a stunning Steelers comeback. Pittsburgh's defense held firm as they completed the 36-33 victory in one of the most thrilling Wild Card games ever.
The rivalry continues each season as these historic franchises battle for AFC North supremacy.