Ravens Stumble: Jackson’s Struggles Overshadow Henry’s Historic Day
The Baltimore Ravens’ five-game winning streak came crashing down on Thanksgiving Day, as they suffered a disappointing 32-14 defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals at home. This outing was marked by self-inflicted wounds from the Ravens, who committed a season-high five turnovers against a defense that has been one of the league’s most vulnerable.
Jackson’s Uncharacteristic Performance
Lamar Jackson’s performance was particularly troubling, as he was responsible for three of those turnovers, leading to what many observers have characterized as one of the worst games of his career. The Ravens’ quarterback struggled to find his rhythm, often appearing overwhelmed by Cincinnati’s defensive schemes. His inability to connect with his offensive weapons and manage the game efficiently put Baltimore at a significant disadvantage.
Derrick Henry Shines Amidst Confusion
Contrasting Jackson’s struggles, Derrick Henry continued to solidify his legacy in the NFL. The Titans’ powerhouse running back had an outstanding performance, surpassing Jim Brown to claim the 11th spot on the all-time rushing list. Henry also tied LaDainian Tomlinson’s record as the only player in NFL history to achieve 10 or more rushing touchdowns in eight consecutive seasons. He averaged an impressive 6.0 yards per carry, with his lone reception going for 44 yards.
Curious Usage Rates Raise Eyebrows
Despite his efficiency, Henry’s usage was perplexing. He finished the game with just 10 carries and a single target, a surprising decision that led to critiques of the Titans’ game plan. An analysis pointed to the stark contrast in the offensive strategies employed, highlighting that while Jackson struggled to lead the Ravens, Henry was significantly underutilized. The commentary suggested that this was not merely a matter of individual performance, but rather a reflection of the coaching staff’s approach.
One commentator emphasized the need for the Ravens to adapt their strategy: “Not because of his performance, but because he received just 10 carries and one target despite averaging 6.0 yards per attempt — and 9.5 yards per touch — while a less-than-100-percent Jackson was often left to fend for himself against an inspired defensive front.” This raises critical questions about the coaching philosophy and whether a significant shift is necessary for the Ravens moving forward.
Calls for Change in Baltimore
The performance against the Bengals has ignited discussions about potential changes within the Ravens’ coaching staff. As the team grapples with their current strategy, the need for a mental reset seems increasingly apparent. The disconnect between Jackson’s struggles and Henry’s underutilization could signal that a reevaluation of their offensive philosophy is on the horizon.
In a league where adaptability is key, the Ravens find themselves at a crossroads. The path ahead is uncertain, but one thing is clear: adjustments are needed if they hope to regain their momentum and avoid further setbacks as the season progresses.
