Derrick Henry’s Limited Use Raises Eyebrows Amid Impressive Performance Against Bengals
Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry has showcased the same explosive prowess that made him one of the league’s premier players early in his career. However, despite his impressive efficiency, his touches this season have been surprisingly limited, particularly in light of the team’s inconsistent passing game. After a disappointing Thanksgiving loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, the conversation around Henry’s underutilization has only intensified, with fans and analysts alike advocating for more involvement in order to keep Baltimore’s offense competitive.
A Strong Start Followed by Limited Opportunities
On the Ravens’ opening drive against Cincinnati, Henry made an immediate impact, rushing for 28 yards to help cap off a seven-play scoring drive. Yet, after this promising start, his presence on the field diminished significantly. He finished the game with just 10 carries, totaling 60 yards and a touchdown, along with a notable 44-yard catch-and-run, all while participating in only 40% of the offensive snaps. Although his individual numbers are commendable, they are particularly perplexing given the Ravens’ struggles in the passing game and the fact that the Bengals possess one of the league’s weaker run defenses.
As the game progressed, the disparity in Henry’s usage became a talking point, with many questioning the decision-making of offensive coordinator Todd Monken. In response to inquiries about his limited carries, the five-time Pro Bowler refrained from placing blame but subtly expressed a desire for more opportunities. “Naturally, I want to take advantage of the opportunities I get. I’m not one to cry in the media or complain. Whatever I get, I try to take advantage of it,” Henry remarked, hinting at his readiness to carry a heavier load.
Consistency Amid Reduced Workload
Despite the decline in touches, Henry has continued to produce at an impressive rate. Over the course of 12 games this season, he has accumulated 931 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable force on the field. However, with quarterback Lamar Jackson navigating injuries and accuracy issues, Henry’s role may need to be amplified if the Ravens aim to reignite their offensive momentum in the final stretch of the season.
Statistics Tell the Story of Underutilization
The Ravens’ offensive struggles are evident when comparing their current performance to last season. After averaging a staggering 424.9 yards per game last year, the team has plummeted to an average of just 317.3 yards per game this season, managing to score more than 40 points only once in 12 outings. While Jackson’s health and recent performance are contributing factors, the glaring reduction in Henry’s usage cannot be overlooked.
Currently, Henry is averaging 16.4 rushing attempts per game, placing him ninth in the league. This figure, while seemingly respectable, stands in stark contrast to his fourth-place ranking of 19.1 attempts per game last season. Given that Jackson has already missed four games and is running less frequently than in previous years, the rationale behind Henry’s limited touches grows increasingly difficult to defend.
In the game against the Bengals, the statistical imbalance was striking: Baltimore relied on Jackson for 38 dropbacks while Henry received only 10 rushing attempts, with zero carries during the second quarter when Baltimore led 7-3. The disparity in play calling has left fans and analysts to question the strategic choices being made, with some suggesting that Monken’s decisions may have veered off course.
As the Ravens look to course-correct and revive their offense, it remains to be seen how they will adjust their game plan to better utilize Derrick Henry, a player who has proven time and again that he can be the backbone of their offensive strategy.
