The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense showed a knack for the big play a year ago. If they couple the sacks and interceptions with better passing defense numbers, this defense could be a top-10 fantasy option.
Steelers D/ST
ESPN fantasy projection: 34.2 sacks, 14.2 interceptions, 9.1 fumble recoveries, 3.3 touchdowns
Over or under: Over in sacks and fumble recoveries, under in interceptions and touchdowns. The Steelers are set up to apply quarterback pressure early and often. After 48 sacks last season, a projection of 34 seems like too steep a jump backward, especially if Bud Dupree makes the leap the Steelers expect. Expect the Steelers to remain in the top 10 in sacks and rushing defense, while improving on their No. 21 ranking in yards allowed with an improved secondary. Interceptions are such a wild card, so it's hard to take the over on 14, which is about the league average. Special teams isn't off to a good start after giving up a 96-yard score in the preseason opener, but generally this group covers well.
