In a stunning display of athleticism, Derrick Henry once again demonstrated why he’s considered one of the most dominant running backs in the NFL. On the Ravens’ first play, Henry burst through the defense for a remarkable 87-yard touchdown, leaving both fans and players in awe.
This play not only showcased Henry’s incredible speed and power but also set the tone for a game that would leave a lasting impression on the league. Derrick Henry’s 87-yard TD is a highlight reel moment that defines his career. Such explosive plays have become a signature part of Henry’s gameplay, continually proving why he is a pivotal player for the Tennessee Titans. This incredible moment early in the game against the Ravens is
Jamison Hensley, ESPN Staff Writer
BALTIMORE — Running back Derrick Henry set a Baltimore Ravens record on the first play of Sunday night’s game against the Buffalo Bills.
Henry broke through a huge hole on the right side of the of the line and ran 87 yards untouched for a touchdown. It’s the longest run in the Ravens’ 29-year history.
DERRICK HENRY TO THE HOUSE!!!!!!!!!!
Tune in on NBC! pic.twitter.com/rRDLQvKh8P
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 30, 2024
After a slow start to the season, Henry has found his groove with Baltimore. This touchdown came after Henry gained a season-high 151 yards last week at the Dallas Cowboys.
On that touchdown run, Henry showed off his speed at 30 years old, reaching 21.29 miles per hour, which is tied for the fourth-fastest speed by a ball-carrier this season, according to NFL Next Gen Stats. It marked Henry’s eighth-fastest speed since 2018.
This was Henry’s third career rushing touchdown of at least 85 yards, which is tied with Lamar Miller for the second-most since 2000. He only trails Chris Johnson, who had four.
just another testament to Henry’s unmatched ability to break through defenses and capitalize on opportunities. His 87-yard touchdown run was a game-changer, catching the Ravens off-guard and immediately putting the Titans in a commanding position. This particular run also added to Henry’s growing legacy of long, record-breaking plays, as he consistently proves that no distance is too far for him to cover on the field.
Derrick Henry’s Explosive Playmaking Ability
Derrick Henry has built a reputation in the NFL as a player who thrives in big moments. His combination of size, speed, and vision makes him one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the league. The 87-yard touchdown run against the Ravens is a perfect example of Henry’s ability to change the momentum of a game with just one play. Defenses know that once Henry breaks through the first line of defenders, it’s often impossible to stop him before he reaches the end zone.
Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 247 pounds, Henry is not only larger than many defenders but also incredibly fast for a player of his size. His ability to accelerate past defenders while using his strength to fend off tackles is a rare skill set that few running backs possess. This combination is what makes Derrick Henry such a unique and invaluable player for the Tennessee Titans. Whether it’s a short-yardage situation or a long run like his 87-yard TD, Henry consistently delivers for his team.
The Impact on the Ravens’ Defense
For the Ravens, giving up such a long touchdown on the very first play was devastating. Baltimore’s defense is typically known for its discipline and ability to contain even the league’s best running backs. However, Derrick Henry’s explosive burst on that play showed that even the best defenses can struggle to keep up with him when he’s in full stride.
The play not only shifted the momentum of the game early on but also forced the Ravens to adjust their defensive strategy. They could no longer afford to play their usual aggressive style of defense, as the fear of another long run from Henry loomed large. The psychological impact of surrendering an 87-yard TD so early in the game cannot be understated, as it disrupted the Ravens’ game plan and put immense pressure on their offense to respond quickly.
Derrick Henry’s History of Long Runs
Henry’s 87-yard touchdown against the Ravens is just one of many long-distance runs that he has delivered throughout his career. His tendency to break through defenses and dash for massive yardage has become one of his defining characteristics. Henry holds the record for the longest touchdown run in NFL history, a 99-yard run against the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018. His ability to cover such vast distances in a single play is a testament to his vision, stamina, and exceptional skill.
Notably, Henry has a knack for performing at his best in crucial moments, whether it’s in the regular season or during high-stakes playoff games. His reputation for breaking off long runs has earned him the nickname “King Henry,” a fitting title for a player who consistently reigns over opposing defenses.
The Titans’ Offensive Strategy
The Tennessee Titans have built their offensive strategy around Derrick Henry’s unique abilities. They rely on their powerful running game to control the tempo of the game, and Henry’s long touchdown runs are a direct result of this approach. By giving Henry the ball early and often, the Titans force opposing defenses to stack the line of scrimmage, which often opens up opportunities for explosive plays down the field.
Henry’s 87-yard TD run against the Ravens was a perfect example of this strategy in action. The Ravens were caught off-guard by the Titans’ strong run-blocking, and Henry took full advantage by using his speed to race down the field. This play not only highlighted Henry’s individual talent but also the effectiveness of the Titans’ offensive line in creating space for him to make such big plays.
A Career Built on Big Moments
Derrick Henry’s career has been defined by unforgettable moments like this 87-yard touchdown. From his high school days in Yulee, Florida, where he set national records for rushing yards, to his Heisman Trophy-winning college career at Alabama, Henry has always been a standout performer. Since entering the NFL, he has only continued to build on his legacy, delivering incredible performances year after year.
In the modern NFL, where passing games often dominate the spotlight, Derrick Henry stands out as a player who can single-handedly take over a game with his powerful running style. His 87-yard touchdown against the Ravens is just the latest example of why he’s considered one of the best running backs in the league today.
Conclusion
Derrick Henry’s 87-yard touchdown run against the Ravens will go down as one of the most memorable plays of the 2024 NFL season. It was a reminder of his unmatched combination of size, speed, and power, which makes him nearly impossible to stop when he’s in full flight. For the Tennessee Titans, Henry’s performance is a crucial part of their offensive success, and as long as he continues to deliver big plays like this, the team will remain a formidable force in the league.
As Henry continues to break records and create highlight-reel moments, his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history grows ever stronger. His ability to dominate games with explosive runs like the 87-yard TD against the Ravens ensures that he will be a name remembered by football fans for years to come.