The new millennium began on a high note for Baltimore, who put on a defensive clinic all season long. The Ravens allowed an NFL low 165 points during their 16 games, which averages out to less than 11 points per game. This number is a far cry from what present-day defensive powerhouse units allow, and likely will not be replicated anytime soon.
1.) Vinny Testaverde, New York Jets: 25 Interceptions and 4 Pick-Sixes
At age-37, the Jets leaned on Testaverde harder than any other team leaned on their quarterback. The former first overall pick led the NFL in passing attempts, with 590, which was the most in his career. Testaverde’s gunslinging definitely got him into some trouble, leading the NFL in interceptions as well as interceptions that were brought back for touchdowns. Vinny would wind up playing 7 more seasons, well into his mid-40s.
2.) Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce, St. Louis Rams: Combined 3,106 Receiving Yards
The Greatest Show on Turf was in full display during 2000, as the Rams would go on to set NFL records. A full offensive showcase, led by quarterback Kurt Warner, running back Marshall Faulk and a medley of wide receivers. Two of these aforementioned wide-outs, superstars Torry Holt and Isaac Bruce, finished 1 and 3 in the NFL in receiving yards. Usually, the top option will pull from the others, or in the case of having multiple talented receivers, there could be a case of “not enough to go around”. This offense, and this duo, had no issues spreading the wealth.
3.) Marshall Faulk, St. Louis Rams: 26 Touchdowns
The 2000 season was all Rams, minus the Super Bowl, of course. While the high-flying passing offense was flashy, the work that Faulk did on the ground was equally impressive. Faulk managed to run in 18 touchdowns, while catching an additional 8. His 26 total scores are 4th all time in NFL history, and no one has been able to surpass him since 2006. The talented offense managed to get two super bowl appearances in three years, and brought home the hardware in 1999.
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