It’s unusual for ball carriers to achieve such feats beyond their 30th birthday.
Derrick Henry, defying expectations associated with players past their peak performance years, commenced his NFL season on Sunday, echoing the impactful conclusions of numerous prior seasons.
The seasoned NFL player, now in his tenth year, marked Baltimore’s initial touchdown of the season, propelling the Ravens to a 10-7 advantage over the Buffalo Bills. This was achieved through a 30-yard rush that the Bills defense struggled to contain.
Baltimore’s offensive front created a substantial opening on a first-and-10 play from Buffalo’s 30-yard line, affording Henry the opportunity to gain significant momentum. Consequently, Bills defenders found themselves outmatched. He remained untouched until reaching the 21-yard line, where he effectively neutralized safety Cole Bishop with his signature stiff-arm, sending Bishop off balance.
Subsequently, he proceeded unhindered, crossing the goal line for the 30-yard touchdown.
Here’s an alternative perspective on that notable stiff-arm.
Henry surpasses Jim Brown
This touchdown marked Henry’s 107th rushing touchdown of his career. It elevated him beyond a tie with the legendary Jim Brown, securing him the sixth position outright on the all-time rushing touchdown leaderboard.
While overtaking all-time leader Emmitt Smith (164) or LaDainian Tomlinson (145) for second place may seem challenging, Henry’s current performance suggests that the remaining positions are within reach. Marcus Allen (123), Adrian Peterson (120), and Walter Payton (110) represent the only players ranked above Henry on this prestigious list.
Henry’s impactful performance against the Bills defense continued throughout Sunday night. Although his second significant gain didn’t result in a touchdown, it was equally, if not more, remarkable. He forcefully advanced through the Bills’ defensive line for 51 yards, reaching the Buffalo 13-yard line.
This gain facilitated a rushing touchdown by Lamar Jackson, extending Baltimore’s lead to 17-7 as the Ravens showcased the full capabilities of their running game.
By halftime, Henry had accumulated 123 rushing yards on merely nine carries, complemented by an additional 13 yards from a reception.
He persistently displayed his exceptional abilities, solidifying his status as the most enduring running back of his generation.
