Shell was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL's All-Decade Team of the 1970s. He was a key member of the Steelers' "Steel Curtain" defense, which helped the team win four Super Bowls during his career. Shell was also a member of the Steelers' 75th Anniversary Team.
Shell was known for his hard-hitting style of play and was a leader in the Steelers' secondary. He was a reliable tackler and had a knack for making big plays when his team needed them. He was also a great team leader, helping to bring the Steelers' defense together and inspiring his teammates to play at their best.
Shell retired after the 1987 season with 51 career interceptions, which is still the most in Steelers' history. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, becoming the first Steelers' safety to receive the honor.
Shell's career was marked by success and excellence, and he is remembered as one of the greatest players in Steelers' history. His contributions to the team's success were invaluable, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
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On December 22, 1980, the Pittsburgh Steelers, led by quarterback Terry Bradshaw and coached by...
1980 NFL Week 16 • Pittsburgh Steelers vs San Diego Chargers - Radio Broadcast / On December 22, 1980, the Pittsburgh Steelers, led by quarterback Terry Bradshaw and coached by Chuck Noll, faced the San Diego Chargers, directed by coach Don Coryell with quarterback Dan Fouts at the helm. The game took place at Jack Murphy Stadium as part of the NFL's regular season schedule. Coming into this game, both teams were already shaping their seasons, with the Steelers looking to maintain competitiveness despite challenges and the Chargers seeking to assert their dominance in the AFC. This season was particularly notable for the implementation of the "Air Coryell" offense, which had begun to revolutionize passing strategies in the NFL.
During the game, the Steelers and Chargers both demonstrated strategic plays with San Diego gradually building a lead. Key performances included Rolf Benirschke’s consistent field goals contributing significantly to the Chargers' score. For Pittsburgh, Sidney Thornton and Bennie Cunningham provided crucial touchdowns that kept the Steelers in contention. Dan Fouts for the Chargers and Terry Bradshaw for the Steelers showcased their prowess, with Fouts throwing for over 300 yards and Bradshaw connecting critical passes, including a touchdown.
Ultimately, the Chargers outlasted the Steelers with a final score of 26-17, which shaped the postseason narratives for both teams. The Chargers improved their record to reflect a strong finish in the regular season, heading into the playoffs with momentum, while the Steelers adjusted to a season that did not meet their historical championship calibers.