Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs. David Reginek-USA TODAY Sports

Lions rookie equals HOFer Barry Sanders in win over Bears

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 11/19/23

Detroit Lions first-year running back Jahmyr Gibbs made impressive franchise history after another strong performance in Sunday's 31-26 win over the Chicago Bears.

Gibbs found the end zone for the fourth consecutive game in Week 11, becoming only the third rookie running back in Lions history to do so, joining Kevin Jones (2004) and Hall of Famer Barry Sanders (1989), per Bridget Condon of NFL Network.

On Sunday, Gibbs finished with 95 combined yards against the Bears. The versatile rookie caught all six targets from quarterback Jared Goff, tallying 59 receiving yards (9.8 YPC). Meanwhile, on the ground, Gibbs rushed eight times for 36 yards (4.5) with a two-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.

Jahmyr Gibbs ties it up

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While many snickered at the Lions for selecting Gibbs 12th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, the 21-year-old is proving doubters wrong, especially with his recent play.

After failing to find the end zone over his first four professional outings, Gibbs has caught fire as of late. Through Week 6, Gibbs had 179 rushing yards (39 attempts) with 14 catches for 70 yards. Over his last four games, Gibbs has recorded 333 rushing yards (59 attempts), 17 receptions for 130 yards and five touchdowns.

Paired alongside veteran David Montgomery, Gibbs has emerged as an integral half of the Lions' one-two punch at running back. The two have co-existed adequately, and Gibbs' presence hasn't slowed Montgomery, who had 76 rushing yards (12 carries), a touchdown and two catches for 22 yards on Sunday.

With the rookie seemingly getting better by the week while Montgomery also stays hot, the sky might be the limit for the Lions offense moving forward.

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