The Pittsburgh Steelers are 6-3 and one game behind the Ravens in the AFC North. If you look at general stats, Pittsburgh doesn't measure up to the 6-3 record. However, the Cold, Hard Football Facts tell a much different story. 

The Cold, Hard Football Facts have successfully predicted the outcome of NFL games and seasons for over 20 years. Our proprietary stats tell a story that traditional numbers can't, and it's evident in the case of the Steelers. 

Pittsburgh's defense measures high in most of our statistics, but they allow many yards. Pittsburgh ranks 28th in Total Team Yards Allowed. This is the same territory as the Patriots, Commanders, Colts, and Giants, which isn't the best group of franchises. 

However, they tighten up in high-leverage situations. They rank second in Bendability, which showcases how hard a defense makes opponents work for their points. Pittsburgh has allowed 3417 yards in 2023, but they have only given up 182 points. This means they're forcing opponents to go 18.77 yards to score a single point. 

The only team with a better rate is the 49ers, who are at 19.17 defensive yards per point allowed. Pittsburgh is also very well coached by Mike Tomlin, and they rank high in Intelligence Index. 

Pittsburgh is seventh in Intelligence Index. Tomlin and the coaching staff have done an excellent job coaching situational football, and it's clear that the defense has made countless plays in high-leverage spots. 

Regarding efficiency against the run and pass, Pittsburgh has been exceptional, forcing turnovers. They're top ten in Defensive Rusher and Passer Rating metrics. 

The Steelers have shown that yards don't necessarily lead to poor defensive play. If a team creates turnovers, sacks, and tightens up in the red zone, they can be one of the league's best units. This is the case with the Steelers.