Is forcing turnovers masking Steelers' struggles on defense? 

Heading into the Steelers' trip to Ireland, fans and media were busy debating the legitimacy of Pittsburgh's win over the New England Patriots. But now, a week later, the defense has stayed consistent, which has led to some of the same questions. 

The Steelers beat New England thanks to forcing five turnovers, and their most recent victory in Ireland included intercepting Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz twice. But while forcing turnovers can lead to wins, will it be something the Steelers can rely on all season? And are the turnovers simply masking a bigger problem? 

Turnover ratio covering up for yards allowed 

So far through four games, the Steelers have generated 10 total turnovers, with an equal split of five interceptions and five fumbles recovered. Overall, as a team, Pittsburgh is +7 in turnover ratio, with only Aaron Rodgers' three picks going against the Steelers so far. Most teams will win games with a turnover margin like that. 

However, the Steelers defense has also embodied the "bend but don't break" phrase that can make fans wonder when this trend will catch up with it. Despite the turnovers, the Steelers defense ranks 29th in yards allowed and is tied for the most rushing touchdowns allowed. 

All in all, three of Pittsburgh's opponents have surpassed 20 points, and two have exceeded 30. Only the Patriots, who coughed up four fumbles and turned the ball over five times, failed to reach 20 points against the Steelers defense — Pittsburgh beat New England 21-14 in Week 3. 

The Steelers gave up 372 total yards and an average of 5.2 yards per play to the Vikings. Wentz threw for 350 yards as both Justin Jefferson (126) and Jordan Addison (114) posted 100+ in yardage. 

How about the pass rush? 

In terms of the pass rush, the Steelers have eight sacks; five of them came in one game against Drake Maye and the Patriots. T.J. Watt has three of them, and two of his came in the New England game. Pittsburgh's defense has simply performed below the bar needed for the team to achieve its ultimate goal, especially after spending more money and shaking up the makeup of the unit in the offseason. 

Longtime Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin always says he will never apologize for any win in the NFL — and he never should. But at the same time, digging deeper into what's actually happened on the field can expose reasons for concern. Relying on turnovers every week in order to find success can be a recipe for disaster for a Steelers defense facing pressure to make the offseason moves and money spent matter.