The Baltimore Ravens' rushing game has been the heartbeat of their offense for years. Even with the Ravens focusing more on airing it out this season, running the ball with Derrick Henry remains their identity. However, last Sunday against the Cleveland Browns, the Ravens had an uncharacteristically poor showing on the ground. They generated just 87 rushing yards, with Henry having just 58 yards and a costly fumble, which contributed to their 13-10 loss.
As they prepare for a Week 7 showdown with the division rival Cincinnati Bengals, they are primed to right the ship. This comes down to two reasons: one, starting center Cam Jurgens is primed to play his first game with the team, and two, the Bengals' run defense is is on an abysmal run.
Whether Lamar Jackson is back in the fold or not, the Ravens must make their presence felt on the ground, or else another loss feels likely. The Ravens need to put points on the board to keep up with the Bengals' offense, and the easiest way to do so is with Henry on the ground.
The Baltimore Ravens have a golden opportunity to re-establish their run game in Week 7
You can criticize Henry if you want for last week, but the reality is the offensive line did him no favors. In particular, guards John Simpson and Emery Jones Jr. struggled to create openings with their poor blocking. This made it difficult for Henry to generate his typical big runs.
The Ravens will still have to live with Simpson's struggles, but getting Vega Ioane back at his natural position at guard and getting rid of Jones will be a huge boost. Moreover, Jurgens' primary strength is run blocking. This will make it a lot easier for Henry.
As hinted at earlier, the Bengals' defense has given up the fifth-most rushing yards per game. Sure, they have Dexter Lawrence, who's a star, but outside of him, there's not much talent there. Most recently, the Bengals gave up 88 yards and a touchdown to Ollie Gordon, and earlier this year, they gave up 127 yards to Jaylen Warren.
Gordon and Warren are solid running backs (especially Warren), but with all due respect, Henry is a different beast, and he can overwhelm the Bengals' lackluster defense. No running back in the league has the same combination of size, strength, and speed.
Despite last week's subpar game, Henry is an elite running back, and he's having a very good season. With improved blocking and an easy matchup, we should see a classic dominant Henry game.
Jackson's return is a real wild card. If he's back, though, the Ravens' offense as a whole could look unstoppable. If not, it will be even more vital for Henry to have a big game.
By all accounts, though, the Ravens' high-powered rushing attack is poised to get back on track this Sunday. There's simply no reason for them not to.
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