The Detroit Lions are gearing up for their divisional round matchup against the Washington Commanders on Saturday night. Recent reports suggest head coach Dan Campbell has an intriguing strategy for deploying his star running backs, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.
Gibbs and Montgomery have formed one of the NFL’s top backfield duos, but that pairing was disrupted in Week 15 when Montgomery suffered an MCL injury initially feared to be season-ending. Subsequent tests, however, confirmed he could return in the postseason, and he’s expected to play against Washington.
In Montgomery’s absence, Gibbs elevated his performance, surpassing 150 total yards in each of the Lions’ last three games. While Montgomery’s return is highly anticipated, Campbell reportedly plans to keep Gibbs as the primary back for their game against the Commanders.
“Most people I’ve talked to expect Jahmyr Gibbs to remain the RB1 right now because he’s really got it going,” Jeremy Fowler noted on “SportsCenter.” “Montgomery will have a role, but I know the Commanders are preparing for Gibbs in a big way.”
Although Gibbs and Montgomery are a dynamic pair, the Lions are wise to capitalize on Gibbs’ momentum during Montgomery’s recovery. Campbell plans to rely on Gibbs while gradually reintegrating Montgomery into the rotation.
If either running back finds a rhythm, Campbell will likely stick with the hot hand as Detroit aims to extend their postseason run. The Lions face the Commanders on Saturday, Jan. 18, at 8
