Ravens Suffer Late Collapse Against Patriots, Derrick Henry's Absence Raises Questions

On December 21, 2025, the Baltimore Ravens faced a critical matchup against the New England Patriots, ultimately losing 28-24 after squandering an 11-point lead in the fourth quarter. The game marked another instance of the Ravens' troubling pattern of late-game collapses, particularly highlighted by the decision to bench running back Derrick Henry during crucial moments. Henry had an impressive performance, rushing for 128 yards and two touchdowns, but did not touch the ball in the final 12 minutes of the game.

USA TodayRavens fans won't like John Harbaugh's explanation for Derrick Henry's late-game absenceHuntsville TimesCris Collinsworth said the quiet part out loud about Ravens' Week 16 collapseBoston.comJohn Harbaugh's Derrick Henry comments raise eyebrows after late-game collapseRoundtable Reactions: Ravens falter late against Patriots as playoff hopes fizzleInstant analysis: Ravens collapse late in a frustrating (but familiar) loss

The Ravens initially took control of the game, with Henry scoring a 21-yard touchdown on their opening drive and later extending the lead to 24-13 with a two-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. However, after Henry's second touchdown, he was sidelined for the Ravens' final two drives. Instead, backup running back Keaton Mitchell, who averaged only 1.4 yards per carry during the game, was given the ball. This decision drew criticism as the Ravens failed to capitalize on Henry's momentum, leading to a series of ineffective plays that culminated in a turnover.

USA TodayHuntsville TimesBoston.comRavens fans won't like John Harbaugh's explanation for Derrick Henry's late-game absenceJohn Harbaugh's Derrick Henry comments raise eyebrows after late-game collapseInstant analysis: Ravens collapse late in a frustrating (but familiar) lossBaltimore Ravens Report Card, Week 16: Another late collapse defined by costly errors

Head Coach John Harbaugh defended the decision to rotate running backs, stating, “Derrick was kind of ready for Keaton to start that drive. And then he was planning on coming in next.” However, he later acknowledged, “Looking back, would I rather have had Derrick starting the drive? Yes.” Henry himself expressed disappointment, noting, “Any player would just like to be able to have the ball in their hands and make plays for the team.”

Boston.com

Critics have pointed to the coaching staff's failure to adjust their strategy in a high-pressure situation. Former NFL player Cris Collinsworth remarked, “Do you think the Patriots have to send a thank you note to the Ravens for not putting Derrick Henry in the game for this drive?” This sentiment reflects a broader frustration among fans and analysts regarding the Ravens' inability to effectively utilize their star players when it matters most.

Cris Collinsworth said the quiet part out loud about Ravens' Week 16 collapse

The loss dropped the Ravens to a 7-8 record, complicating their playoff hopes. They now face a must-win situation against the Green Bay Packers, while needing the Pittsburgh Steelers to lose against the Cleveland Browns to keep their postseason aspirations alive. The Ravens’ inability to close out games has raised serious questions about the team's direction and coaching strategies as they approach the season's conclusion.

Instant analysis: Ravens collapse late in a frustrating (but familiar) loss

While Harbaugh and Henry both indicated that the decision to bench Henry was part of a planned rotation, the effectiveness of this strategy has been called into question, especially given the stakes of the game. The Ravens' coaching decisions have faced scrutiny, with many fans and analysts suggesting that a more aggressive approach could have changed the outcome.

USA Today

• “Looking back, would I rather have had Derrick starting the drive? Yes.” — John Harbaugh, Head Coach

Boston.com

• “Any player would just like to be able to have the ball in their hands and make plays for the team just to give ourselves a chance to go win,” — Derrick Henry, Running Back

USA Today

• “Do you think the Patriots have to send a thank you note to the Ravens for not putting Derrick Henry in the game for this drive?” — Cris Collinsworth, Former NFL Player

Cris Collinsworth said the quiet part out loud about Ravens' Week 16 collapse

The Ravens' late-game management and reliance on a running back rotation during critical moments have left fans and analysts questioning the team's strategy as they navigate the final stretch of the season.

Instant analysis: Ravens collapse late in a frustrating (but familiar) loss