10 Quarterbacks Who Were Carried By Their Defense

Success in the NFL often hinges on the synergy between a team’s offense and defense. While quarterbacks are typically the focal point, some championship-winning teams have leaned heavily on their defensive prowess.

This article explores ten instances where a quarterback led their team to an NFL championship, yet it was the defense that arguably played the more crucial role in securing victory.

10. Russell Wilson (2013 Seattle Seahawks)

Russell Wilson had a strong 2013 season with a 101.2 passer rating, but the Seahawks’ defense was crucial to their success. That year, Seattle’s defense allowed just 14.4 points per game, significantly contributing to their Super Bowl victory.

9. Jared Goff (2018 Los Angeles Rams)

Jared Goff had a strong 2018 season with the Los Angeles Rams, throwing for 4,688 yards and 32 touchdowns. However, the team’s success was heavily influenced by its defense, which allowed just 25.5 points per game, ranking 24th in the league.

8. Jimmy Garoppolo (2019 San Francisco 49ers)

Jimmy Garoppolo led the 49ers to a 13-3 record in 2019, throwing for 3,978 yards and 27 touchdowns. Despite his strong performance, the team’s defense played a crucial role in their success, often securing victories with their stellar play.

7. Nick Foles (2017 Philadelphia Eagles)

Nick Foles led the Eagles to Super Bowl LII, but their defense was crucial. It ranked top five in points and yards allowed, forcing numerous turnovers. Foles’ performance was pivotal, especially in the playoffs, but the defense’s strength was key to their championship success.

6. Joe Flacco (2012 Baltimore Ravens)

Joe Flacco led the Ravens to a Super Bowl XLVII win in 2012, but their strong defense was pivotal. Flacco threw for 3,817 yards with 22 touchdowns, while the defense allowed just 17.1 points per game.

5. Rex Grossman (2006 Chicago Bears)

Rex Grossman led the 2006 Chicago Bears to a 13-3 record, but their strong defense was pivotal. Grossman threw for 3,193 yards with 23 touchdowns, while the defense allowed just 15.9 points per game. This balance helped them reach the Super Bowl that year.

4. Peyton Manning (2015 Denver Broncos)

Peyton Manning’s 2015 season was marked by a struggling offense, but the Broncos’ dominant defense, led by Wade Phillips, carried the team to a Super Bowl victory. Manning had his worst statistical season since his rookie year, while the defense ranked No. 1 in total yards and sacks.

3. Ben Roethlisberger (2005 Pittsburgh Steelers)

Ben Roethlisberger’s first Super Bowl win in 2005 was largely due to the Steelers’ strong defense, which allowed just 16.1 points per game. Despite missing four games, Roethlisberger led the team to victory, showcasing the defense’s crucial role in their championship success.

2. Brad Johnson (2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers)

Brad Johnson led the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl XXXVII victory, thanks largely to their dominant defense. Johnson had a solid season with 22 touchdowns and 6 interceptions, but it was the defense that truly propelled the team to success.

1. Trent Dilfer (2000 Baltimore Ravens)

Trent Dilfer led the Baltimore Ravens to a championship in 2000, despite modest stats: 1,502 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. The Ravens’ defense was pivotal, allowing just 21.2 points per game.