Mike Tomlin still fears a former AFC North rival too much to utter his name. Now working as an NBC analyst, Tomlin got an up-close look at the Baltimore Ravens' 30-24 overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons. Ahead of the Sunday Night Football clash, the former Pittsburgh Steelers head coach wouldn't say Derrick Henry's name when discussing the star running back.
"When you don’t have a guy the caliber of Lamar Jackson, as they say in 'The Godfather,' 'It’s time to go to the mattresses.' How do they go to the mattresses? They ride the big runner," Tomlin declared. Tomlin continued to use that moniker, noting that the five-time Pro Bowler hasn't dominated as much as he did his first two years in Baltimore after a key teammate left.
"It's a little bit different this year," Tomlin said. "In the past, the big runner was always accompanied by Patrick Ricard, the 300-pound fullback. We all know he now plays for the New York football Giants, and I'm feeling a little difference this year.
The big runner's [averaging] 4.2 yards per carry. The year before, he was 5.9. So it's been a little bit tougher sledding without the 300-pound lead blocker." NBC host Maria Taylor made sure viewers knew who Tomlin meant.
"I just want to remind you guys, the big runner is Derrick Henry," Taylor said. "He still will not say his name because he sends a shiver down his spine." Tomlin responded to a clip from the NBC segment, explaining that the nickname showed reverence rather than animosity. "So much respect for The Big Runner," Tomlin declared.
Henry struck again on Sunday night, tallying 120 yards and his eighth touchdown of the season. The big runner will lead the Ravens into a Week 6 encounter with the Cleveland Browns.
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