The Pittsburgh Steelers have had a long tradition of rolling out dominating pass-rushing tandems. From Greg Lloyd and Kevin Greene, to James Harrison and Lamar Woodley it’s almost expected that the guys on the edge tally more than 10 sacks. The tradition is still alive and well in Pittsburgh here in 2020. T.J. Watt and Bud Dupree are some of the most feared sack-artists in the game today. However, the names that came before them were usually considered THE BEST duo’s of their eras. So that begs the question, are T.J. Watt and Bud Dupree the best pass rushing dup in the NFL today.
Lets take a look at how their closest competitors matchup.
Note, the following names will not include any players currently listed on the injured reserve.
Myles Garrett & Olivier Vernon, Browns
Myles Garrett has already racked up 9 sacks in 7 games, and I one of the front runners for defensive player of the year. His running mate, Olivier Vernon is no slouch but just hasn't been able to contribute statistically. Garrett’s dominance willed this unit onto the list, however as a duo I would prefer Watt and Dupree.
Joey Bosa & Melvin Ingram, Chargers
Joey Bosa is the richest defensive player today, and his Pro Bowl running mate, Melvin Ingram is just getting healthy now. They could potentially be the best duo in football, but they need to find a way to stay healthy. The best ability is availability, and that's why I'm still sticking with the boys in the ‘burgh
Za’Darius Smith & Preston Smith, Packers
The ‘Smith twins’ in Green Bay are rolling right along into 2020. Preston has not come anywhere near the production of Za’Darius, and for that reason I would take Dupree and Watt.
Jason Pierre-Paul & Shaquil Barrett, Buccaneers
Pierre-Paul has sneakily tallied up 5.5 sacks as of now, and Shaq Barrett has added three of his own. Barrett is nowhere near the level of production he put out a season ago, but Pierre-Paul has picked up the slack. However Watt, and Dupree have done more with less and still have a leg up on who I consider the next closest challenger.
And mentioning the players that aren't getting any contribution across from them but are almost good enough to get on the list by themselves: Khalil Mack, J.J. Watt, and Cameron Jordan. Also, don't forget about Yannick Ngakoue, and Matthew Judon who will play their first game with one another on Sunday.
I firmly believe no one holds a candle to what Watt and Dupree have accomplished this year. They are both well on their way to double digit sack totals, and are leading the entire NFL in tackles for a loss. The strength of the 2020 Steelers comes from its defense. And the strength of the defense comes from its pass rushers.
But what do you think? Are T.J. Watt and Bud Dupree the best pass rushing tandem in the NFL? Hit the poll and leave a comment below!