Derrick Henry began his Ravens tenure by scoring the first touchdown of the 2024 NFL season in a game against the Kansas City Chiefs. The two-time rushing champion, who joined Baltimore after an eight-year stint with the Tennessee Titans, made an immediate impact with a five-yard touchdown run during the team’s opening drive on Thursday night.
The Ravens’ first drive was heavily centered around Henry, consisting of 11 plays that covered 70 yards. Henry received the ball five times, accumulating 17 rushing yards throughout the drive, which ended with his touchdown. He concluded the game with a total of 13 carries for 46 yards, while quarterback Lamar Jackson contributed significantly with 122 yards on 16 carries.
This performance signals a promising season ahead for the Ravens, who are expected to utilize Henry extensively as part of a formidable running duo alongside Jackson. However, the Ravens ultimately fell short, losing to the Chiefs 27-20 in a thrilling finish.
Despite the challenges faced during their opening drive, including three illegal formation penalties, the Ravens successfully gained three first downs and the touchdown. Unfortunately, their lead was short-lived as Kansas City quickly answered back with a scoring drive, highlighted by a 21-yard touchdown run from rookie Xavier Worthy on his first NFL touch.
By halftime, the Chiefs held a 13-10 lead, which they maintained throughout the game. The Ravens’ final attempt to tie the score was thwarted when an apparent touchdown by Isaiah Likely was ruled out of bounds in the back of the end zone.