Things always seem to get a little chippy when the Steelers play the Ravens.
Pittsburgh defensive tackle Cameron Heyward put that theory to the test on Sunday, getting into it with pair of Baltimore linemen deep in the second quarter of the AFC North foes latest matchup.
On third and long, the Ravens seemingly were content with taking the chip shot field goal and heading into halftime with a three point edge over their rivals. However, Heyward, Ronnie Stanley and Ben Powers got into it getting up off the field after JK Dobbins' run attempt was stopped close to the line of scrimmage.
MORE: Updates and highlights from Steelers vs. Ravens
The trio bumped and tugged with one another, with Stanley appearing to grab a handful of Heyward's jersey. Heyward awkwardly extended his arms, making contact with the nearest referee.
If Heyward hitting the ref here is what drew the flag, I mean, come on. He clearly gets yanked down by his jersey. #Steelers @937theFan pic.twitter.com/M8DXdxwSir
— Josh Rowntree (@JRown32) January 2, 2023
That's not permitted, by the letter of the NFL's law. Heyward was whistled for unnecessary roughness, giving Baltimore a new set of downs while allowing John Harbaugh's squad to take one last shot at the end zone.
The Ravens made Pittsburgh pay; Tyler Huntley linked up with Isaiah Likely for a seven-yard touchdown to take the lead.
Touchdown? Yeah, that's Likely 🙌 @DaGorilla4
— NFL (@NFL) January 2, 2023
📺: #PITvsBAL on NBC
📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/K8OMv0nWCp pic.twitter.com/3SLTaKzEbV
Heyward was less than pleased. In fact, he was fuming as he trotted back to the sideline.
Cam Heyward: “That’s some bullshit man.” #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/DvhnnD9cdH
— Blitz Guy (@BlitzGuyOG) January 2, 2023
He wasn't the only one. Fellow Pittsburgh leader Minkah Fitzpatrick shared words with Heyward, drawing an animated response from the longtime Steeler in the process.
Cam Heyward and Minkah Fitzpatrick on the sideline! 👀 #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/lguRTRSmdP
— Blitz Guy (@BlitzGuyOG) January 2, 2023
Pittsburgh's playoff hopes are only hanging on by a thread courtesy of its victory over Las Vegas last week. Those hopes certainly took a hit due to Heyward's flag. Only time will tell if it proves fatal.