Who Won the Super Bowl in 1980? Steelers Win Record 4th Title

By Sarah Miller · January 5, 2030

Who Won the Super Bowl in 1980?

The Pittsburgh Steelers won Super Bowl XIV, defeating the Los Angeles Rams 31-19 on January 20, 1980. This victory made the Steelers the first team in NFL history to win four Super Bowls, cementing their dynasty status of the 1970s.

Super Bowl XIV: A Historic Victory for the Steelers

Super Bowl XIV was played at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, marking the first time the championship game was held in that iconic stadium. The Pittsburgh Steelers faced off against the Los Angeles Rams in a hard-fought contest that solidified Pittsburgh’s legacy as one of the greatest teams in NFL history.

Key Highlights of the Game

The Steelers became the first franchise to win four Super Bowls (IX, X, XIII, XIV).
Quarterback Terry Bradshaw was named Super Bowl MVP after throwing for 304 yards and two touchdowns.
The Rams kept the game close, trailing only 24-13 late in the fourth quarter before the Steelers sealed it with a Franco Harris touchdown run.
This was the final Super Bowl broadcast by CBS before NBC took over the rotation.

Team Rosters and Key Players

Both teams featured standout talent, but the Steelers’ experience in big games proved decisive.

Pittsburgh Steelers' Standout Performers

Terry Bradshaw: Completed 14 of 21 passes for 304 yards and 2 TDs.
John Stallworth: Caught 7 passes for 118 yards and 1 touchdown.
Franco Harris: Rushed for 158 yards and 1 touchdown, including the clinching score.
Jack Lambert: Anchored a tough defense that limited Rams running back Wendell Tyler.

Los Angeles Rams' Key Contributors

Pat Haden: Threw for 245 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Rick Upchurch: Returned a punt for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Jack Youngblood: Played despite a fractured leg, showcasing legendary toughness.

Statistic	Pittsburgh Steelers	Los Angeles Rams
First Downs	23	18
Total Yards	424	346
Passing Yards	304	245
Rushing Yards	120	101
Turnovers	2	3
Time of Possession	32:08	27:52

Table data source:1, 2

The Steelers dominated time of possession and had more total yards, particularly through the air. Their ability to convert key third downs and protect the ball gave them a clear edge despite three turnovers.

Legacy of Super Bowl XIV

The Steelers’ win in 1980 marked the end of an era. It was their fourth Super Bowl victory in six years, establishing them as the NFL’s first true dynasty. This game also showcased the league’s growing national appeal, drawing a then-record television audience.