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Falcons' 1977 Grits Blitz defense rated best in NFL history

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

Falcons' 1977 Grits Blitz defense rated best in NFL history

Summary

The Atlanta Falcons' 1977 defense, known as the Grits Blitz, is now confirmed as the best in NFL history according to a modern metric, DVOA. Under head coach Leeman Bennett, the defense allowed just 128 points in a 14-game season, averaging 9.2 points per game, a record still unbroken. The Falcons transitioned from a poor 1976 defense to the top-ranked unit, excelling in both rushing and pass defense, showcasing innovative blitz-heavy schemes. Bennett and his coaching staff utilized 3-4 concepts and five-man packages, leading to significant success against opposing offenses. This recognition reaffirms the historical significance of the Grits Blitz in the NFL.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•1977 Falcons defense allowed fewest points ever in a season
•DVOA confirmed Falcons as top defense over Super Bowl champions
•Transition from 1976's poor defense to a remarkable improvement
•Innovative blitz-heavy tactics employed by coaching staff
•Defense excelled in both rush and pass statistics

Latest Updates

5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Yes, the Falcons’ 1977 Grits Blitz defense really was the NFL’s best

What they're saying

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The 1977 ‘Grits Blitz’ Falcons defense was thought to be one of the best in NFL history. Now, one particular modern metric confirms the theory.
— Yahoo Sports

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