No Montgomery, No Problem
When it comes to last season, Lions fans were unhappy with the lack of carries that Jahmyr Gibbs had. Gibbs had 182 carries compared to David Montgomery’s 219 carries. The Lions fans thought that Gibbs was way too talented to be getting so few carries. They wished that the Lions could utilize Jahmyr Gibbs more frequently. After Montgomery got injured last Sunday, they got their wish in the worst possible way.
David Montgomery’s Injury
David Montgomery was a huge part of the Lions’ run game. Montgomery had 775 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns on the season before he got injured. On Week 15 against the Bills, Montgomery suffered an MCL injury and was ruled out for the game. It initially looked like Montgomery was not going to return this season. However, it is now possible that he could return for the playoffs. After getting three different opinions, it is clear that he might not have to get surgery at all. Regardless of when Montgomery is coming back, he left a hole to fill. As a result, Jahmyr Gibbs filled that hole today.
Filling the Void
Against the Bears, Jahmyr Gibbs stepped up in a way that made people forget that David Montgomery was out. Gibbs used his elusiveness and speed to make up for the loss of David Montgomery’s power. Jahmyr Gibbs had 23 carries for 109 yards, 45 receiving yards, and a rushing touchdown. The touchdown that he scored was from the goal line. Without Montgomery’s power, the Lions were held for two plays, until third and goal when Gibbs used his elusiveness to punch it in. Instead of trying to replicate David Montgomery, the Lions played to Jahmyr Gibbs’ strengths, utilizing short passes for big gains. Jahmyr Gibbs filled the void that the Lions left him.
Lions fans got their wish when it comes to Gibbs finally getting more reps. However, this is not the way they wanted it to happen. David Montgomery will be missed for however long he continues to be out. However, if Jahmyr Gibbs can continue to step up in the ways that he has been, the Detroit Lions will be just fine.
