Steelers Nation is mourning the loss of former defensive lineman Ray Seals, who passed away this week at the young age of 59. Fans of a certain vintage are already familiar with his story. Seals skipped college to play semi-pro ball. The Steelers signed him as a free agent in 1994, where he had 15.5 sacks over the next two years.
Seals wasn’t just an unsung hero of the “Blitzburgh” defenses of ‘94 and ‘95; he was a leader of the locker room culture. He inspired the “60 Minute Men” shirts that became part of that era’s ethos.
90s era “60 Minute Men” shirt
Seals’ contributions may not be as well-remembered as teammates like Rod Woodson, Greg Lloyd, Kevin Greene, and Levon Kirkland (as evidenced by Seals’ first-round defeat in this year’s Steelers March Madness). However, his presence was essential to their winning ways.
Let’s look at some of Seals’ biggest highlights in the black and gold.
September 11, 1994 – Week 2 at Cleveland
Late in the 2nd quarter, the Steelers were down 10-7 on their own 28. On 2nd and 18, Seals sacked Vinny Testaverde to force a 3rd and 24. Pittsburgh would need those yards because the Browns nearly converted the next play. Matt Stover missed the 32-yard field goal. Pittsburgh went on to win 17-10.
October 23, 1994 – Week 8 at New York
Steelers were trailing 6-3 late in the third quarter. Facing 1st and 10 on their own 40, Seals sacked Dave Brown and the Giants would ultimately punt. Pittsburgh came back to win 10-6.
November 6, 1994 – Week 10 at Houston
This was the best statistical game of Seals’ career with three sacks. They all came late in a close contest. The first forced a punt with the Steelers up three. The third happened in overtime and set up a 3rd and 11 that Cody Carlson couldn’t complete. Pittsburgh won 12-9.
November 27, 1994 – Week 13 in Los Angeles
Early in the fourth quarter, the Raiders were trailing the Steelers by four, but were driving. Greg Lloyd forced a fumble and Ray Seals jumped on the loose ball. That allowed Mike Tomczak to seal the game with a touchdown pass. Pittsburgh won 21-3.
30 years ago today….
Greg Lloyd strip sack changes tide
Early 4th, Raiders enter Pittsburgh territory trailing 7-3 but Lloyd forces fumble that Ray Seals recovers.
Tomczak turns it into his 2nd TD of the day. Steelers win 21-3 for their 9th win of ‘94. Raiders drop to 6-6. pic.twitter.com/oxxUc9PBpf
— Steel City Star (@steelcitystar) November 27, 2024
December 11, 1994 – Week 15 in Philadelphia
This game showed the Steelers’ defense making a statement against Randall Cunningham and Hershel Walker. They gave up a field goal on the opening drive, but the Eagles never scored again. Seals sacked Cunningham in the second quarter. Pittsburgh finally got on the board in the fourth to win 14-3.
October 29, 1995 – Week 9 vs Jacksonville
The Steelers’ defense only gave up 229 total yards and seven points in this game. Seals sacked Mark Brunell twice.
January 28, 1996 – Super Bowl XXX
It’s not Seals’ most impressive play, but a Super Bowl highlight, nonetheless. In the first quarter, Pittsburgh faced a 2nd and 6 on their own 11. Troy Aikman rolled out but everyone was covered. Seals chased him out of bounds behind the line of scrimmage and was rewarded the sack.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Seals family. Long live the 60 Minute Men!
Ray Seals with his father in the 90s
