The Detroit Lions are set for a difficult matchup on Sunday against the Green Bay Packers, giving new offensive coordinator John Morton an early test. How Morton is going to differentiate the Lions offense from Ben Johnson is the biggest concern facing the Lions in the first weeks of the season. Having said that, Detroit's talented backfield — as well as the team's other offensive threats — should make Morton's job a bit easier.
Running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs have been the perfect complement to each other, allowing the other to stay fresh and consistently alter the opposing defensive approach. At the same time, Lions fans have been wondering how Morton will divvy up the duo's playing time this fall. Gibbs' career is on an upward swing, and no one would be shocked if his improvements limit Montgomery's opportunities.
Morton has been asked about Gibbs and Montgomery's playing time throughout the summer, and that trend continued again on Thursday.
"We'll see," Morton said about Gibbs and Montgomery having a similar workload in 2025 (h/t @colton_pouncy).
Lions' Backfield Shake Up Could Benefit David Montgomery
For Lions fans attempting to decipher what exactly this might mean, look no further than Morton's earlier comments clarifying his intention to put Gibbs and Montgomery players on the field at the same time.
"I’m all about making the defense uneasy. I’m always looking to put our best players on the field at all times. I come from the school of multiple packages of personnel groupings in and out of the huddle, and trying to keep the defense uneasy. That’s the school I come from. It’s going to be a cool thing."John Morton, July 28
The Athletic's Colton Pouncy even pointed out on Thursday that Morton "routinely trotted out" both of his star RBs "together" throughout training camp, proving that he's living up to his word. It isn't a surprise, though, considering how the Denver Broncos often deployed two-RB sets during Morton's time as their passing game coordinator.
A more even backfield split would benefit Detroit's elder statesman. Montgomery only saw 41% of offensive snaps last season compared to Gibbs' 56%. Despite the uneven timeshare, the 28-year-old RB still managed 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 185 carries. In other words, an equal split could see his numbers skyrocket.
At the same time, running back is arguably the most physical position on the field and demands a level of intensity that often causes injuries or players to wear down early in their careers. Playing both RBs at the same time rather than alternating could limit how fresh their legs look as the game progresses.
Still, it is impossible to ignore the possible upside of the Lions' two-headed monster creating mismatches. Gibbs can be an elite receiver, while Montgomery is a punishing runner who demands a heavier defensive front. Putting both players on the field while having your starting receivers lining up leaves the defense questioning what exactly the right grouping is going to be in response.
Montgomery was a useful contributor in Johnson's offense, and could be a reliable weapon under Morton, too. Some players find success no matter who's calling the plays.
Sunday will give Lions fans their first glimpse of Morton's plans in an incredibly important divisional matchup. Beating the Packers won't be easy, but it'll be more than doable if Montgomery (and Gibbs) can capitalize on his new backfield responsibilities.