All it takes is a quick look at the NFL statistics to know what the Steelers offense will be going up against this week.
The Denver Broncos are the NFL's No. 1 overall defense, as well as No. 1 against the pass and No. 2 against the rush.
They are statistics that quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is well aware of.
"Their pass rush is unbelievable," said Roethlisberger. "Whether it's edge rushers getting around the outside, inside guys getting a rush. The secondary guys getting physical and making plays. The ball is in the air they intercept it and score. From their pass rush, rush and coverage work together. There is a reason they are No. 1 in every category."
The Broncos allow only 272.5 yards per game, 188.2 passing yards, 4.3 yards per play, and 17.3 points per game, all tops in the league. And it's a combination of players contributing to the success, including their cornerbacks Aqib Talib and Chris Harris Jr.
"They do everything," said Roethlisberger. "They get out, they press, they are physical, and they can play zone. They just take good angles to the ball. They are fundamentally sound. When the ball is in the air they make plays on it."
Another weapon he will be on the lookout for is linebacker Von Miller, who leads the Broncos in sacks with 10. Roethlisberger is hoping the offense is able to counter Miller's strength by getting the ball to the receivers fast, but he knows it won't be an easy task.
"You get the ball out quick it slows down a lot of rush," said Roethlisberger. "When that happens outside guys get their hands up. They try to bat balls down. Even with a quick passing game you can't get the ball out there fast enough for Von. He is in there fast.
"This is a good test for us. Last week was a good test, this one is going to be even bigger."
A little more from Ben:
On if he feels like officials are doing enough to protect quarterbacks in the league: Yes, I guess so. Got to be careful how I answer that, I guess, so I don't get in trouble.
On if he would prefer Peyton Manning playing this game:
To me, I have enough to worry about with their defense. I can't worry about who they have going at quarterback, because if I think for even two seconds about their offense, I'm going to be in trouble because their defense is that good.
On teams pressing Antonio Brown at the line:
Some teams try that. Sometimes it works, sometimes you fail miserably at it. He's one of the best in the world for a reason. He can get open against press, or off. I'm happy he's on my side.
On Vontaze Burfict:
He's a physical football player. He gets after it and that's what you love about the game, his physicality and getting after it. So, I'm done worrying about that. It's behind us, we have to move forward now.
On his group of receivers now compared to before:
It's another good group. A.B. is A.B. and I think the other guys are young guys trying to be great. Markus Wheaton sits in here every day and we talk and communicate, and Martavis is the same way. I think each one just brings something different to the table.
On what's contributed to the success you guys have had in the two-minute drill this year:
Just everybody understanding what's going on, the extra effort, the work, the communication. It's really just a big part of it. If you can sync, communicate and work together and even just talk, sit down next to Markus or A.B. or Heath Miller and just communicate in the locker room. It can go a long way on the field.
On having the same coordinator for four years:
That helps a lot. The more comfortable you get, you start almost calling the same plays. You're calling something, or he's calling it in. So, the faith and trust the coaching staff has in me and in us as an offense helps too.
