Steeler Defense Steals the Show in 20-0 Shutout Win Over Oilers

PITTSBURGH — Playing a game reminiscent of their “Steel Curtain” days, the Pittsburgh Steelers shut down the Houston Oilers, 20-0, Sunday.

The Oilers were limited to 50 yards rushing and 84 yards passing as the Steelers recorded their first shutout since a 24-0 win over the Rams on Nov. 29, 1981.

Mark Malone threw two first-quarter touchdown passes of 25 and 5 yards to Louis Lipps, and Gary Anderson kicked field goals of 37 and 38 yards.

Safety Donnie Shell set up one of the touchdowns with his 44th career interception--most among active NFL players--and paved the way to one of the field goals with a fumble recovery.

Although Pittsburgh improved to 2-1 while Houston fell to 1-2, Oiler Coach Hugh Campbell said his team was mentally prepared for the Steelers’ defense, which has allowed just 20 points in three games.

“We knew Pittsburgh had a tough defense, but we didn’t come in here afraid or scared,” he said. “They just outplayed us. Their defense was very tough, but I thought we’d get a few more first downs.”

The Oilers finished with eight first downs.

Houston quarterback Warren Moon completed 10 of 18 passes for 92 yards with 1 interception and lost 17 yards in 3 sacks. The Oilers’ top rusher was Mike Rozier with 21 yards in 4 carries.

The Oilers’ defense was almost as tough against Malone, who completed 9 of 19 passes for 126 yards with no interceptions. Malone also was sacked 3 times for 24 yards.