The Steelers 2019 defense was hungry for turnovers. The unit satisfied that hunger by devouring 38 combined interceptions and fumble recoveries, and its .203 turnover average was good for first in the league. Of those turnovers, 20 were interceptions (second in league), and 18 were fumble recoveries (first in league). Overall, Pittsburgh forced 22 fumbles, for an average of 1.4 per game.
Here’s the breakdown on recoveries:
- LB Devin Bush – 4 (one for a 20-yard TD)
- LB T.J. Watt – 4
- S Minkah Fitzpatrick – 2 (one for a 79-yard TD)
- LB Bud Dupree – 2
- DL Cam Heyward, CBs Joe Haden, Mike Hilton, Steven Nelson – 1
It just so happens that Giants quarterback Daniel Jones led the NFL in fumbles lost, with eight. Additionally, his 12 interceptions tied him for seventh in the league. If Jones’ turnover struggle continues into 2020, the Steelers defense could be feasting Monday night.
Opportunities were a-plenty for the defense in 2019. They were on the field for 182 drives, third-most in the league. But Ben Roethlisberger is back, and with it, the increased potential for extending drives and scoring points. With fewer opportunities and less pressure to win games, the rate at which they recovered fumbles last season will be challenging to sustain.
But having a go at Jones is an excellent place for them to start.
Stats courtesy of Football Outsiders
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