Detroit Lions: The NFL’s Best Running-Back Tandem

Image: “Detroit Lions’ Running Backs: Montgomery and Gibbs”

The Detroit Lions’ offense has been making headlines for its creativity, and a significant reason behind this is the NFL’s best running-back tandem. David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs have been the driving force behind the Lions’ high-powered offense this season.

Montgomery, who was brought in as the lead back, has been a proverbial Mack truck on the field. Despite limited playing time, he has managed to score 10 touchdowns in 11 games, which ranks fifth in the league. His ability to break tackles and gain yards has been impressive, ranking second in rushing percent over expected and 11th in rushing yards over expectation and rushing yards over expectation per attempt.

Gibbs, on the other hand, has become one of the most exciting rookies in the NFL. He has been tying for the highest rushing yards over expectation per attempt, gaining 0.75 more yards per carry than the average. Gibbs is also known for his ability to gain yards after contact, averaging an additional 2.4 yards on every carry.

The Lions’ offense has been thriving, averaging 394.4 yards per game, ranking third behind Miami and San Francisco. They have been scoring an average of 27.3 points per game, which is the fifth-highest in the league. The Lions’ success on the ground has been a significant factor, as they average the second-highest rushing yards per game with 140.9.

The team’s ability to adapt and use both Montgomery and Gibbs effectively has been crucial to their success. Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson has managed to find ways to involve both players, even after Gibbs was forced into an increased role due to Montgomery’s injury.

The Lions’ running game has been a sustainable way to control and win games, which should bode well for their upcoming playoff appearance. Detroit’s offense is one of the most well-rounded in the NFL, and a lot of it starts with the best running-back tandem in the league.