ALLEN PARK, Mich.
— The Detroit Lions have constructed their team with a strong emphasis on the running game.
The team’s offensive tackle Taylor Decker and center Frank Ragnow have been critical components of the offensive line since being drafted in the first round in 2016 and 2018, respectively.
During general manager Brad Holmes’ inaugural draft with the Lions in 2021, he strategically added two-time All-Pro tackle Penei Sewell as the seventh overall pick, further enhancing the line’s prowess.
In 2023, the Lions strengthened their backfield, signing free agent David Montgomery and drafting Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round.
Additionally, to fill another pressing need, guard Kevin Zeitler was secured through free agency in the previous offseason.
These key investments have yielded fruitful results.
For the first time in franchise history, Detroit stands as a top-seeded team entering the NFL playoffs, showcasing one of the finest rushing attacks in the league.
While much of the accolades go to the running backs, Montgomery emphasized the importance of the offensive line in their success.
“We’ve got the best O-line in the world,” he stated.
“I don’t think they get enough credit. There’s no 1,000-yard scrimmage for me, there’s no almost 2,000 yards scrimmage for Jah.”
As the sixth-seeded Washington Commanders prepare to face Detroit this Saturday night in the divisional round, they are acutely aware of the formidable task ahead, particularly due to their run defense struggles.
“Hats off, they’ve got two backs, very physical, perimeter and whatnot,” noted Washington linebacker Frankie Luvu.
“But it’s not about them. It’s about us. And when it’s time to make hits, we’re going to make them pay.”
Washington’s defense ranked near the bottom of the league against the run, allowing 137.5 rushing yards per game during the regular season.
In their recent victory against Tampa Bay in the wild-card round, the Buccaneers managed to gain 101 yards on the ground.
Gibbs and Montgomery showcased their capability by averaging a combined 138.5 rushing yards per game throughout the regular season while embracing their spirited Sonic and Knuckles monikers off the field.
In his second year, Gibbs shined brightly, leading the league with a franchise-record of 20 touchdowns while accumulating 1,412 rushing yards, along with 517 receiving yards and four touchdown catches.
“Jah is special,” Montgomery remarked.
“He’s a generational talent.”
In his sixth season, Montgomery tallied 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, narrowly avoiding surgery after a knee injury in the 14th game threatened his season.
“I wouldn’t be out there if I wasn’t ready,” Montgomery stated, expressing confidence in his recovery.
“I think it feels better than it did before I got hurt.”
Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, a potential NFL head coaching candidate for the upcoming season, commented on Montgomery’s performance in practice, expressing high expectations for his return.
“I expect David to come in and pick up where he left off,” Johnson said.
With increased opportunities during Montgomery’s absence, Gibbs excelled, running for over 100 yards in three consecutive games for the first time in his career and averaged an impressive 162.3 scrimmage yards with six touchdowns.
“It’s kind of his show,” noted Montgomery.
Detroit’s head coach Dan Campbell emphasized the significant role Montgomery plays in their offensive identity.
“It’ll mean a lot — 5’s a big part of us,” Campbell stated.
“He’s a huge part of us.”
Moreover, Montgomery recognized that running the football defines Detroit’s identity, a core mission for Campbell and Holmes as they lead this historically challenged franchise.
“I think it creates an attitude,” Campbell concluded.
“I think it creates a style.”