Baltimore Ravens’ Derrick Henry on track to break single-season rushing yards record

In an era of football playbooks that lean toward passing, Derrick Henry has emerged as a symbol of the old school - a modern-day warrior who defies the sport’s contemporary trends. While quarterbacks rack up yards and touchdowns through the air, Henry, with his impressive build reminiscent of Roman gladiators or superheroes like the Hulk, is a key part of his team’s five-game winning streak and is on track to break an NFL record.

A giant on the field with his imposing physique, Henry has redefined the role of the running back in an era where offensive coordinators prefer quarterbacks to also carry the ball if necessary. His ability to run, weave through defenses and pick up yards at a blistering pace has been crucial to the Ravens’ recent success.

Eric Dickerson’s record in danger

With 873 yards in seven games, Henry is on course to finish the season with 2,120 yards, a mark that would surpass Eric Dickerson’s all-time single-season record of 2,105 yards.

Henry is currently averaging 124 yards per game, so with an expanded 17-game schedule, the projections estimate he could reach 2,120 yards.

Eric Dickerson’s record of 2,105 was set in 1984. Henry’s 873 rushing yards this season are above his rate at the same point in 2020 (775) when he reached the 2,000-yard mark.

Henry and Jackson: The dynamic duo

While Lamar Jackson remains in the spotlight as a potential league MVP, Henry is undeniably an invaluable player for Baltimore. The combination of Jackson and Henry has created a nearly unstoppable offense. While Jackson dazzles with his throwing and running ability, Henry offers a relentless ground force capable of wearing down any defense.

On Monday night, in a display of offensive power, Jackson threw for 281 yards and five touchdowns, perfectly complemented by Henry, who accumulated 169 rushing yards, including 146 in the second half. This joint performance not only secured a 41-31 victory over the Buccaneers, but also highlighted the synergy between both players.

Jackson and Henry are on pace to combine for 3,225 rushing yards this season. The NFL record for a duo is 2,442, held by Eric Dickerson and Dwayne Crutchfield with the Rams in 1984.

Henry’s 2024 season

Henry’s impact on the Ravens

Henry’s influence on the team goes beyond statistics. His presence on the field forces opposing defenses to adjust their strategies, which in turn opens up opportunities for Jackson’s passing game and the receivers. Players like Mark Andrews and Rashod Bateman benefit from the attention Henry draws, allowing them to find space and pick up crucial yards.

Derrick Henry’s 2024 season is poised to be one of the most memorable in NFL history. Henry reminds us of the beauty and brutality of the running game. His ability to dominate on the field, his resilience and his determination have made him a unique player.

Henry’s opportunity to break Eric Dickerson’s record is a testament to his talent and the confidence the Ravens have in his ability to lead the running game.

If he continues at this pace, he will not only set a new standard for running backs, but also solidify his legacy as one of the all-time greats.

The Ravens (5-2) top the AFC North and are next in action on Sunday when they are guests of the Cleveland Browns (1-6). The Browns’ only win so far came in Week 2 against the Jaguars - Kevin Stefanski‘s men are still waiting for their first victory at Huntington Bank Field after defeats to the Cowboys, the Giants and the Bengals.