Derrick Henry’s bold vow: Determined to avenge the Ravens’ AFC Championship defeat to Mahomes and the Chiefs!
Derrick Henry isn’t just anticipating the 2024 NFL Kickoff Game – he’s seeking revenge. After witnessing the Kansas City Chiefs dash the Baltimore Ravens’ Super Bowl dreams in last season’s AFC Championship Game, Henry is determined to rewrite the story.
The four-time Pro Bowler signed with the Ravens in March and is set to make a significant impact in the season opener against the reigning champions. On Sunday, Henry emphasized that if he had been on the Ravens’ roster during the AFC title game, the outcome would have been different.
“Absolutely,” Henry exclaimed when asked if he could have made a difference. “I wish I could’ve been out there that day. But now it’s my chance, and I have to make the most of it. It’s going to be one incredible game.”
Henry has a long history with the Chiefs
The former Tennessee Titans running back is well-acquainted with facing the Chiefs. In four games against Kansas City since Patrick Mahomes became the starter, Henry has accumulated 458 rushing yards and five touchdowns, including two games where he averaged over six yards per carry.
However, he has also experienced defeat, notably during the 2019 AFC Championship Game, where the Chiefs’ defense limited him to just 69 yards on 19 carries.
The Ravens signed Henry during free agency, recognizing the need to bolster their rushing game. Despite having the NFL’s top-ranked rushing attack last season, Baltimore deviated from their strength in the playoffs against the Chiefs, rushing fewer times combined than Henry did alone in that 2019 title game.
The Ravens’ rushing duo of Lamar Jackson and Gus Edwards managed only 81 yards, leading fans to speculate how the game might have turned out with a powerful back like Henry in the lineup.
The Ravens’ rushing tandem of Lamar Jackson and Gus Edwards managed only 81 yards, prompting fans to speculate how the outcome might have been different with a powerhouse like Derrick Henry in the lineup. Henry’s arrival in Baltimore marks a new chapter for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. The 2024 NFL Kickoff Game presents an ideal opportunity for Henry and the Ravens to start their mission to unseat the Chiefs.
Henry, who joined the Ravens in March, is eager to make an impact in the season opener against the reigning champions. Reflecting on last season’s AFC Championship Game, Henry expressed that his presence could have altered the outcome. “Hell yeah,” Henry said when asked if he could have made a difference. “I wish I could’ve suited up that day. But now it’s my turn, so I’ve got to take advantage of it. It’s going to be a hell of a game.”
Having faced the Chiefs multiple times during his tenure with the Tennessee Titans, Henry is well-acquainted with the challenge they present. In four games against Kansas City since Patrick Mahomes took over, Henry has accumulated 458 rushing yards and five touchdowns, with two games averaging over six yards per carry. However, he has also faced defeat, notably in the 2019 AFC Championship Game where the Chiefs limited him to 69 yards on 19 carries.
The Ravens’ decision to sign Henry was driven by a need to bolster their rushing attack. Despite having the NFL’s top-ranked rushing game last season, the Ravens struggled against the Chiefs in the playoffs, rushing fewer times combined than Henry did alone in that 2019 game. The addition of Henry is expected to enhance their offensive capabilities.
Henry’s arrival signifies a shift in the Ravens’ approach as they aim for a Super Bowl title. With the 2024 NFL Kickoff Game set against the Chiefs, Henry is primed to lead the Ravens and show their capabilities. “It’s who they lost to to get to the big one, so I’m sure that’s in the back of their minds,” Henry said of the team’s motivation. “We’re going to come out and play Ravens football. Execute, get that W, and show everyone what we’re about.”
Henry’s chance to prove himself arrives this Thursday as the Ravens face off against Mahomes and the Chiefs.
