They say defense wins ball games and as of late these teams are proving that in the NFL you really need defense. Three of these Top 5 teams are in first place and cruising to victories week after week.
The way I came to my conclusion for the Top 5 was adding their ranks in total points, total, passing and rushing yards allowed per game and then dividing it by four to see where their average defense rank laid.
5) Chicago Bears Defensive Grade= 7.50
Many would have the Bears at No. 1 with their ability to strip offenses forcing fumbles and their ability, not only to intercept passing, but to bring them back for the scores. What the Bears defense has been able to cover up is their biggest weakness, which is covering the pass. Seems ironic, but the Bears are giving up 230 passing yards per game good for 16th in the league.
4) Seattle Seahawks Defensive Grade= 6.25
Too bad these guys have an inconsistent offense because they have a top ranked defense. Their biggest weakness is their run defense as they just over 100 yards rushing. They only allow 17 points per game, which is good for 3rd in the NFL. They are tied third in the NFL with the Bears and New York Giants with 25 sacks on defense.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers Defensive Grade= 4.33
They proved they deserved to be here after shutting down the Giants on Sunday. Better believe Bill Belichik and Tom Brady got on their phones to find out how the Steelers were able to stop the Giants. Their pass defense is outstanding and it has also affected the amount of yards they allow in total. They are first in both stats as a team. They allow the fewest aerial yards and total yards in the NFL. They are also within the Top 10 in points and rushing yards allowed. All in all, this team is making up for their offensive struggles and are battling for the first place spot in the AFC North.
2) Houston Texas Defensive Grade= 4.33
It was a close call between the Steelers and Texans, but Houston just edged out Pittsburgh. You do not want to rush against these guys. Teams are only averaging 82 yards per game, the second lowest allowed by any team in the NFL. They are 4th in points allowed and passing yards per game. They allow the third fewest total yards per game at 286.
1) San Francisco 49ers Defensive Grade= 2.50
They allow just under 13 points, the 2nd fewest total yards and passing yards and they can stuff the run as they are in 5th place in that category. This defense simply has it all. They do not do a great job at intercepting the ball or sacking opposing quarterbacks, but they find a way to get stops. After dropping to the third spot in the NFC West, the Niner have rumbled to the top spot in their division and they have their defense to thank.
