From Cold Hard Football Facts:

We already have what is easily the statistical story of the 2009 season: the rise of Denver's Defensive Hogs.

The Broncos finished 31st in this all-important indicator last year. They couldn't stop opponents on the ground (30th); they couldn't force opponents into negative pass plays (30th); and they couldn't get off the field on third down (25th).

This year, they're No. 1 on the DHI, fresh off their shut-down performance of a high-powered Dallas offense. They stop opponents on the ground (6th); they force opponents into negative pass plays (2nd); and they get off the field on third down (2nd).

It's a remarkable turnaround for the Broncos. And here's the best part, Denver fans: if you're new to CHFF, you might be thrilled to learn that, since CHFF introduced the Defensive Hog Index in 2007, the team that finished No. 1 in the indicator has gone on to win the Super Bowl each year (Giants, Steeelers). Still a lot of football to be played. But No. 1 is a good place to be sitting.