The Baltimore Ravens are in a must-win situation on Saturday night against the Green Bay Packers. With their backs against the wall, they needed a win to stay in the playoff race, and they responded with the exact sense of urgency they needed in the first half.
Baltimore’s offense quickly got into a rhythm after opting to get the ball first. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley kept the ball out of harm’s way early, and more importantly, the coaching staff let the dynamic rushing attack go to work.
Of course, it was running back Derrick Henry setting the tone. After not using the five-time Pro Bowler in the final 12 minutes of last week’s loss, Ravens fans understandably aired out their frustrations.
Head Coach John Harbaugh and Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken were relentlessly questioned about the shocking decision throughout the week, and after the first half of play, it is clear they finally listened. They are learning quickly that the media and fans were right.
Derrick Henry runs rampant in first half
After two quarters of play, Henry already had 21 attempts and gathered 106 yards on the ground and three touchdowns. He was a force, running through Green Bay’s defense with ease from the first snap of the ball. It was his best start to a game all season, and he is proving to be the exact player Baltimore needs to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Backup running back Keaton Mitchell and Huntley also got involved. Mitchell provided a change of pace, rushing for 23 yards on four carries. Huntley also helped keep passing plays alive and used his legs for 46 yards on four carries.
Unfortunately, Baltimore fans have seen this story before. Seemingly all season, Henry and company have dominated opposing defenses on the ground. However, Harbaugh and Monken always struggle to keep the rushing attack going for all four quarters. No matter how fast Henry and company get going out of the gates, the gameplan always seems to get away from Harbaugh. They cannot stray away from Henry against the Packers.
This should have been the offense’s identity all year long. It is obvious that the offensive line is more comfortable blocking in run situations than in passing situations. They have been one of the worst pass-protecting lines in the NFL this year, and while the run blocking has not been much better, they at least show some competence in creating rushing lanes. Week 17 proves that.