Who Won the 1980 Super Bowl? Steelers vs Rams

By Sarah Miller · April 14, 2035

The Pittsburgh Steelers won the 1980 Super Bowl, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 31-19 in Super Bowl XIV, which took place on January 20, 1980, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. This victory made the Steelers the first team in NFL history to win four Super Bowls.

Super Bowl XIV: A Historic Victory for the Steelers

Super Bowl XIV marked a defining moment in NFL history, as the Pittsburgh Steelers cemented their status as a dynasty by claiming their fourth championship in six years. Played on January 20, 1980, at the iconic Rose Bowl stadium, the game featured the AFC champion Steelers against the NFC champion Los Angeles Rams.

Key Highlights of the Game

The Steelers became the first NFL team to win four Super Bowls (IX, X, XIII, XIV).
Quarterback Terry Bradshaw threw for 309 yards and two touchdowns, earning Super Bowl MVP honors.
The Rams kept the game competitive, with running back Wendell Tyler rushing for 71 yards and a touchdown.
Steelers' wide receiver Lynn Swann caught a 47-yard touchdown pass, one of his key contributions.
Pittsburgh sealed the win with a late-game interception by Jack Lambert.

Team Rosters and Key Players

Both teams featured legendary players and coaches. The Steelers were led by head coach Chuck Noll and stars like Terry Bradshaw, Franco Harris, Lynn Swann, and Jack Lambert. The Rams were coached by Ray Malavasi and included Hall of Famers like quarterback Vince Ferragamo and defensive end Jack Youngblood, who played through a fractured leg.

Notable Steelers Contributors

Terry Bradshaw: 309 passing yards, 2 TDs – Super Bowl MVP
Franco Harris: 158 rushing yards, 1 TD
John Stallworth: 7 catches, 115 yards, 1 TD
Lynn Swann: 6 catches, 83 yards, 1 TD

Rams Standouts

Vince Ferragamo: 213 passing yards, 1 TD, 1 INT
Wendell Tyler: 71 rushing yards, 1 TD
Jacks Youngblood: Played despite injury, recorded multiple tackles

Super Bowl XIV Statistics and Data Analysis

Statistic	Pittsburgh Steelers	Los Angeles Rams
First Downs	23	16
Total Yards	429	296
Passing Yards	309	213
Rushing Yards	120	83
Turnovers	2	3
Time of Possession	33:56	26:04
Third Down Efficiency	7/14	5/13

Table data source:1, 2

The statistical edge clearly favored Pittsburgh, particularly in total offense and time of possession. Their ability to sustain drives and convert on third down limited the Rams’ opportunities. Despite three turnovers, the Steelers’ offensive firepower and balanced attack proved decisive.

Legacy of Super Bowl XIV

Super Bowl XIV solidified the Steelers’ 1970s dynasty and elevated Terry Bradshaw into the upper echelon of NFL quarterbacks. The win reinforced Pittsburgh’s dominance during that era, joining the 1960s Green Bay Packers as elite repeat champions. For the Rams, it was a missed opportunity, though their resilience earned respect across the league.

The game also marked a turning point in how Super Bowls were broadcast and marketed, with rising television ratings and national attention. It was the last Super Bowl played in January until the 1984 season due to future scheduling changes.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 1980 Super Bowl

Who won the 1980 Super Bowl?

The Pittsburgh Steelers won Super Bowl XIV on January 20, 1980, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 31-19 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California.

What was the final score of Super Bowl XIV?

The final score was Pittsburgh Steelers 31, Los Angeles Rams 19.

Who was named MVP of Super Bowl XIV?

Quarterback Terry Bradshaw of the Pittsburgh Steelers was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 309 yards and two touchdowns.

Where was the 1980 Super Bowl held?

Super Bowl XIV was held at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, home of UCLA and the annual Rose Bowl Game.

Why was Super Bowl XIV significant for the Steelers?

It was significant because the Steelers became the first NFL team to win four Super Bowls, establishing themselves as the league’s first true dynasty of the modern era.