Connect with us

Alabama in the Pros

Running back Derrick Henry records first NFL touchdown, lifts Titans over Jaguars

Christopher Hanewinckel - USA TODAY Sports

He has yet to total a 100-yard rushing game, but Derrick Henry’s work ethic and team chemistry in the locker continues to impress Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Mularkey and his staff.

Henry and the Titans faced Jacksonville and the Heisman winner’s former teammate at Alabama, T.J. Yeldon, on Thursday Night Football. The 6-foot-3, 247-pound back got the better of Yeldon, totaling 60 yards rushing and a touchdown on 16 carries. His first-ever score in the pros came on a 6-yard run in the second quarter.

https://twitter.com/NFLonLive/status/791812209559076864

He averaged 3.8 yards per carry, while grabbing four passes for 37 yards. Despite a 3-4 start, its 36-22 win over Jacksonville still positions Tennessee for an opportunity at a playoff run. It hasn’t been involved with postseason action since 2008, however, the development of Henry along with Marcus Mariota and others—gives it a strong case to make a push. Henry has 221 yards rushing and 107 yards receiving this season.

Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama MagazineYou can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

More in Alabama in the Pros