Running Back Dynamics in Detroit: Gibbs Outshines Montgomery in Week 1 Clash
As the offseason buzz surrounding the Detroit Lions intensified, many speculated whether Jahmyr Gibbs would finally take on a more prominent role in the backfield. This potential shift in the Lions’ running game could spell trouble for David Montgomery, who has traditionally held a significant share of the workload.
Snap Counts Reveal a Shift
In the Lions’ Week 1 contest against the Green Bay Packers, the snap counts tell a compelling story. Pro Football Focus recorded Gibbs on the field for 44 snaps, significantly outpacing Montgomery, who managed just 25. Typically, the disparity in snap counts between these two running backs has been much narrower when both are healthy.
While Montgomery’s snap count is not unusual in isolation, the increased usage of Gibbs raises eyebrows. The nature of the game played a crucial role—Detroit found itself trailing for the majority of the contest, necessitating a more dynamic offensive approach. Gibbs, known for his speed and ability to contribute in passing situations, appears to be the preferred choice when quick scores are needed.
Game Context Matters
The Lions fell behind early, with the Packers establishing a 7-0 lead that ballooned to 17-3 by halftime. Detroit struggled to close the gap, trailing by as much as 24-6 in the fourth quarter. In this context, Montgomery’s absence from the final drives was notable; he did not receive a single carry during the last two possessions, despite having two carries on the Lions’ opening drive of the final quarter.
The first half may offer a glimpse into the future of the Lions’ backfield usage. Both Gibbs and Montgomery saw equal snap percentages in the first two quarters, each at 52%. Montgomery had the edge in carries during this span, with eight to Gibbs’ six. However, Gibbs’ increased presence on the field could signal a shift in the team’s offensive strategy, particularly in high-pressure scenarios.
Limited Production Raises Questions
Despite Montgomery leading the Lions in carries with a total of 11—two more than Gibbs—neither running back was able to make a significant impact on the ground, combining for a mere 44 yards. This lack of production raises concerns about the running game overall and how it will evolve as the season progresses.
The snap counts from Week 1 provide a snapshot of Detroit’s running back dynamics, but the true test will come when they face a more competitive matchup. How Montgomery and Gibbs share the workload in a tighter game could reveal more about their roles going forward.
As the Lions look to regroup, the running back battle will be a critical storyline to monitor in the weeks ahead.
