Lions hoping Jahmyr Gibbs can stay as productive despite losing backfield partner
The Detroit Lions know they are asking a lot of star running back Jahmyr Gibbs. For the first three years of his career, Gibbs was paired with David Montgomery in Detroit's “Sonic and Knuckles” partnership. Montgomery picked up where he left off Sunday, scoring three touchdowns, but that was for the Houston Texans in a 36-31 loss to the Bills.
The Detroit Lions are expecting star running back Jahmyr Gibbs to perform well against the Buffalo Bills on Thursday, despite facing an unusually high workload due to the loss of his partner, David Montgomery. In Montgomery's absence, Gibbs has been handling a career-high 18.8 touches per game, which he doubled on Sunday, rushing for 156 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the New Orleans Saints.
Lions coach Dan Campbell is confident Gibbs will be ready for Thursday's game, stating, "I think he'll be recovered for Thursday." However, the Lions' backup running back, Sione Vaki, has only nine career carries. The offense has also been bolstered by a new-look offensive line, featuring rookie Blake Miller and Juice Scruggs. While the defense has dominated early in games, allowing Buffalo to come back, the Lions will be relying on their linebackers, notably Derrick Barnes, who intercepted a pass and stopped New Orleans' 2-point conversion attempt in the previous game.
The Lions' injuries are a concern, with guard Christian Mahogany and rookie Blake Miller potentially unavailable due to hip and knee injuries, respectively.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- Lions hoping Jahmyr Gibbs can stay as productive despite losing backfield partner winnipegfreepress.com