Derrick Henry’s Limited Early Carries: A Shocking Trend for the Ravens

Overview of Derrick Henry’s Performance

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry has had an impactful yet perplexing season so far. With 49 carries, totaling 284 yards and 10 touchdowns, Henry’s individual performance is impressive. However, industry experts are questioning the Ravens’ strategy regarding his use in crucial situations.

Expert Insights

Dan Orlovsky, a prominent ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback, recently highlighted the startling statistics surrounding Henry’s early-down carries. According to Orlovsky, based on insights from statistics, the Ravens are last in the league for attempts made to their running backs on first and second downs, ranking 32nd among NFL teams.

Key Statistics:

• Carries: 49
• Yards: 284
• Touchdowns: 10

Orlovsky remarked, “A month into the season, the Baltimore Ravens — with Derrick Henry — are the 32nd-ranked offense in the NFL when it comes to giving the ball to their running back on first or second down. When they do run the football, they average 6.0 yards per carry, which is second-best in the league.”

Recap of Recent Games

In the Ravens’ recent outings, Henry’s number of carries has raised eyebrows:

• Against the Kansas City Chiefs: 8 carries
• Against the Detroit Lions: 12 carries

The 8 carries against the Chiefs were Henry’s fewest since 2018, a concerning statistic for a player of his caliber. Despite the limited touches, Henry remains focused on maximizing his opportunities:

“I just try to take advantage of opportunities. I don’t try to get too caught up in that; I just make something happen when I’m out there,” Henry stated during a press conference.

Embracing the Challenge

Henry’s mindset is resilient. “Bring it on. I look at it with a positive mindset. We’re 1-3. Nobody’s going to do it for us. We have to do the work,” he expressed, showcasing a determined outlook as the team aims to rectify its rocky start.

What’s Next for the Ravens?

As the Ravens prepare for their upcoming matchup against the Houston Texans, who also have a 1-3 record, both teams are looking to turn their seasons around. Baltimore’s coaching staff needs to reconsider its approach to utilizing Henry effectively in early downs, especially given how well he performs when given the opportunity.

Key Takeaways

• The Ravens rank last in using their running back on early downs, despite Henry’s high efficiency.
• Henry’s limited carries are puzzling and could hinder the team’s potential success moving forward.
• With a pivotal game approaching against the Texans, adjustments are essential for Baltimore to improve its record.

By examining the dynamics around Derrick Henry and the Ravens’ offensive strategy, fans are left to wonder: Will Baltimore finally commit to making the most of one of the league’s most talented running backs? The next game might just reveal that answer.

For more insights into NFL statistics and team strategies, check out ESPN and NFL for up-to-date analyses and reports.