Ravens' Derrick Henry isn’t washed, Todd Monken was wasting possessions

Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry scorched the Los Angeles Rams for 122 rushing yards on 24 carries in week 6. Even in the 17-3 defeat, offensive coordinator Todd Monken should take considerable notes on how momentum, time of possession, and defensive points allowed were all positively impacted by his change in approach on offense this past Sunday.

Hopefully, Monken has finally put on his thinking cap and won’t revert to folly once quarterback Lamar Jackson returns to the lineup. Jackson’s talents shouldn’t be a cue to override Henry's apparent strength and positive impact on the team’s offense. Henry makes things smoother for the Ravens, and he does so with humility. Play-action, deep shots in the passing game, and other masterful trick plays that Monken has in his repertoire will all have an opportunity to be unleashed if he remains patient and gets back to the basics.

A 1-5 start to the 2025 NFL season was unthinkable, but with key injuries on defense and a consistent diversion on offense from what has proven itself, Monken has to be willing to self-reflect and account for some of the blame. Nevertheless, Monken decisively managed the game well versus the Rams, but a few fumbles by wide receiver Zay Flowers and an interception throw by quarterback Cooper Rush inhibited the offense from ultimately propelling the team. 

The Rams were allowed just 51 plays on offense; that’s a season low for total plays on defense for the Ravens, who have lost the time of possession in every one of their games this season (except this past Sunday). Monken must continue to feed Henry 20 carries per game if he wants to turn things around this season. Hopefully, Jackson's return will help mitigate the team's turnover tendencies and propel the Ravens on their quest for a mid-season winning streak.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens Derrick Henry isn’t washed, Todd Monken was wasting possessions