Key Highlights
- Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery look up to Barry Sanders as an inspiration.
- The duo aims to break the record for most touchdowns by a pair of running backs in the Super Bowl era.
- Barry Sanders has recovered from a heart attack that occurred in 2024 but remains involved with the Detroit Lions organization.
- The Lions are set to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football, hoping for a strong performance by Gibbs and Montgomery.
Barry Sanders: A Beacon of Inspiration for Running Back Tandems
Barry Sanders, the legendary Detroit Lions running back, has long been a symbol of excellence in the NFL. His career, marked by 15,269 rushing yards and his iconic “Smooth Operator” style, continues to inspire current players like Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. The pair is currently forming one of the most devastating running back tandems for the Lions as they prepare for their upcoming match against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football.
From Legacy to Reality: Gibbs and Montgomery’s Aspirations
Gibbs, leading with 390 rushing yards and four touchdowns, and Montgomery, following closely with 334 yards and four scores, are determined to make NFL history. They aim to break the record for most touchdowns by a pair of running backs in the Super Bowl era, currently held by Emmitt Smith and Daryl Johnston’s 25 combined touchdowns.
“Every time he’s at the game, I just want to show out,” Gibbs told ESPN, referencing Sanders’ presence. “Like, wow, that’s Barry Sanders. So, every time he’s at the game, I try to make sure I’m on point.” Montgomery echoed similar sentiments, adding, “I think for us, it gives us the ability to realize the standard and what we’ve got to live up to, just knowing that Barry walked the same grounds that we walked.”
Barry Sanders: A Fighter Through and Through
In June 2024, Sanders suffered a heart attack but has since recovered and remains an integral part of the Lions organization. The incident was a stark reminder of the health challenges that can affect even the most physically fit athletes. Upon admission to Henry Ford Hospital, his top risk factor was identified as high cholesterol.
“I thought it was like heartburn or a pulled muscle or something,” Sanders recounted. “It wasn’t the worst pain; it was just very persistent. It was just kind of annoying, honestly.” After spending three days in the hospital, he fully recovered and returned to his duties with the team.
Strategy and Success: Gibbs and Montgomery’s Running Game
The Lions’ head coach, Dan Campbell, paired Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery together in 2023, utilizing their different running styles. Gibbs relies on his all-round nature as a speedy weapon in the passing game, while Montgomery’s bruising style effectively dismantles opponents.
“He just says, ‘Go kill ’em,'” Gibbs shared about Sanders’ advice. “That’s all he needs to say.” Together, they helped the Lions average 146.4 rushing yards per game, which was the highest mark by the team in a season since 1997 when the Sanders-led Lions averaged 154.0 rushing yards.
The upcoming match against the Buccaneers presents an opportunity for Gibbs and Montgomery to not only break the record but also demonstrate their combined power on the field. The 4-2 Lions host the 5-1 Buccaneers at Ford Field on Monday, October 20th, with fans eagerly watching how these rising stars will perform.
