The Pittsburgh Steelers defense put together a disappointing performance in Thursday's loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward didn't hold back when assessing his team's defensive performance. In fact, Heyward invoked his inner Bill Murray to express his frustration.
Cam Heyward on Steelers defensive problems: It's Groundhog Day. https://t.co/aj7BkqFXaz
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) December 10, 2021
Steelers defensive tackle Cameron Heyward is clearly not happy after the unit allowed over 200 rushing yards to Dalvin Cook and the Minnesota Vikings. Heyward implored his defensive teammates to remember their assignments and “get off the blocks”, noting that the team says this before every week.
Article Continues BelowWhile playing defense last night, Heyward probably felt like Bill Murray in that scene from Groundhog Day where he wakes up and the radio starts playing that same song, day after day. Heyward and the Steelers are listening to that same old music, only it's the sound of defenders not holding their blocks and ball-carriers speeding right on by the defensive line.
The Steelers defense has surrendered at least 160 rushing yards to two of the last three running backs they've faced and allowed the most rushing yards in a half since the 2013 season, per ESPN Stats and Info. No wonder Heyward feels like Bill Murray stepping into that puddle and hearing Ned Ryerson saying, “Watch out for that first step.”
Unless the Steelers can begin to figure out how to correct their defensive issues, it's going to feel like Groundhog Day every week for Cameron Heyward.