The Baltimore Ravens didn’t just beat the Pittsburgh Steelers in their Wild Card showdown; they put on an absolute clinic. A 28-14 win fueled by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry showcased everything that makes this Ravens team a Super Bowl threat. But amidst the electric runs and dominant performances, it was a postgame comment from Jackson that stole the show.
When asked about Henry’s 44-yard touchdown run—where the 6-foot-3, 247-pound running back reached a blistering 20 miles per hour—Jackson didn’t go the analytical route. Instead, he turned to Disney Pixar’s Cars, likening Henry to Lightning McQueen.
“You watch the movieCars?” Jackson asked the reporters. “You know when Lightning McQueen is just flying, flashing past? That’s how Derrick looks. When he was running past, and all them guys are just … it looks like a movie, bro. I’m not going to lie to you. I’d rather be watching it than be on the opposite side of the ball.”
Lamar Jackson describing what it's like to watch Derrick Henry live is the best thing you'll hear all day 😂pic.twitter.com/qQvPFfSFGu
— Sarah Ellison (@sgellison) January 12, 2025
The imagery was perfect. Henry’s ability to hit another gear despite his massive frame was on full display Saturday, leaving Steelers defenders looking like rusty tractors spinning in the dirt.
Ka-Chow! Derrick Henry goes full Lightning McQueen on Steelers
Henry’s 44-yard touchdown wasn’t just a highlight; it was the turning point. After Pittsburgh had clawed its way back within striking distance, Henry’s burst up the middle silenced any thoughts of a comeback. Watching the Steelers flail helplessly as Henry sped by was like a scene pulled straight from a Pixar storyboard.
This wasn’t just about speed—it was about power. On his way to the end zone, Henry stiff-armed Steelers All-Pro safety Minkah Fitzpatrick with ease, leaving him sprawled on the turf. It was the kind of run that could live in a loop on highlight reels for years, and Jackson’s playful Lightning McQueen comparison gave it an extra layer of charm.
Minkah Fitzpatrick just re-entered Earth's orbit https://t.co/VXrsaS1pmL
— Ebony Bird (@Ebony_Bird) January 12, 2025
Lamar wasn't the only one in awe of Henry's performance: "I thought it was fun watching Lamar run, but watching Derrick Henry run for a touchdown, I think that might take the cake," Ravens offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley said. "Maybe because he's like 6-foot-5, running like a gazelle."
Jackson and Henry have quickly become one of the most dynamic duos in the NFL. Their complementary styles—a quarterback with video game-like agility and a running back who combines power and speed in unprecedented ways—have made the Ravens nearly unstoppable. Saturday’s game was a perfect example: Jackson threw for 175 yards, ran for 81 more, and added two touchdowns, while Henry racked up 186 yards and two scores of his own.
But it’s moments like Jackson’s comparison that highlight why this team is so dangerous. They’re not just talented—they’re having fun. Jackson and Henry’s mutual respect and camaraderie shine on and off the field, and that energy is infectious.
Here are some Lightning McQueen highlights to peruse. Just remember, this is Pixar's Cars, not Derrick Henry:
As the Ravens prepare for their next playoff matchup, the Lightning McQueen comparison feels fitting for a team that’s leaving opponents in the dust. If Henry and Jackson keep up this level of play, “Ka-chow!” might just echo all the way to a Lombardi Trophy.