We all know the tandem as Sonic and Knuckles. It’s clear that the Detroit Lions have something with running back Jahmyr Gibbs as he continues to develop his way into superstardom. Gibbs is one of the most explosive playmakers in football and he’s destined to make something happen whenever he touches the football. But the peanut butter to his jam is teammate David Montgomery.
For Montgomery, he has recorded 1,667 yards and 24 touchdowns on 379 carries in 26 games played with Gibbs. On the contrary, Gibbs has recorded 314 carries for 1,692 yards and 23 touchdowns with Montgomery. But there’s been instances where Montgomery hasn’t played.
Last season, we saw Montgomery injure his knee and despite coming back quicker than most, it was clear the Lions missed his tone setting presence. Gibbs recorded 665 yards on 118 carries and 8 touchdowns in 6 games without Montgomery. Averaging over 100 rushing yards in each of those games is impressive but both backs feed off each other.
Especially when looking at just the flow of the game. Over the last two seasons, you would see Montgomery early in games. But as the game went on, the pace would change and Gibbs would step onto the field and hit big runs with ease. Much of that is due to Montgomery wearing the opposition down. Additionally, having Montgomery in the red zone is pivotal for the success of the Lions offense.
According to PFF, Montgomery has scored at least one rushing touchdown in 75% of his games over the last two seasons. Could that change with John Morton calling the offense? Certainly, it could, but it’s been evident that he’s valued in the Lions offense. Giving touches to Montgomery does not diminish anything for Gibbs.
If anything, it helps.
It helps keep the offense on track. It puts defenses in a bind when either back is on the field. Despite taking some shots whenever they get tackled with the football, it prevents them from taking all of the shots out of the backfield. As we prepare for the 2025 season, I’d expect much of the same usage and role for both running backs in Detroit. For David Montgomery, he needs to continue to be a tone setter for the offense.
