The Detroit Lions are fighting for playoff positioning in a tight NFC North race, and their margin for error is shrinking fast. After a costly loss to the Green Bay Packers, Detroit now faces mounting pressure to finish the regular season strong and avoid slipping out of postseason contention.
However, head coach Dan Campbell may be “playing with fire” by leaning too heavily on one star player: Jahmyr Gibbs.
Lions Shift From Two-Back Attack to a Gibbs-Heavy Offense
Earlier in the season, Detroit thrived on a balanced backfield featuring Gibbs and David Montgomery. The duo’s shared workload kept defenses guessing and allowed both players to stay fresh deep into games.
But over the past three weeks, that formula has drastically changed.
Gibbs (Weeks 11–13): 47 rushes, 19 receptions
Montgomery (Weeks 11–13): 19 rushes, 6 receptions
Total touch difference: 41 touches
The Lions have effectively turned their backfield into a one-man show, and while Gibbs has delivered elite production — including 264 total yards and three touchdowns in the overtime win vs. the New York Giants — the imbalance raises concerns.
Why Detroit’s Current Strategy Could Backfire
There is no denying Gibbs’ explosiveness, but Montgomery brings a bruising, physical style that helps wear down defenses. His effectiveness was evident against Green Bay, where he averaged 4.0 yards per carry compared to Gibbs’ 3.4, and also scored a touchdown.
A more balanced workload could:
Keep both backs fresh
Reduce injury risks
Sustain long drives
Prevent defenses from keying in on Gibbs
Restore offensive rhythm
Detroit has two legitimate starting-caliber running backs — a luxury most teams don’t have. Using only one to carry the majority of the load removes one of the Lions’ biggest advantages.
Dan Campbell Must Rebalance Before It’s Too Late
While Dan Campbell’s aggressive coaching style has helped reshape Detroit’s culture, shifting too far away from the Gibbs–Montgomery tandem may create long-term problems. With the playoffs on the line, the Lions need their offense firing on all cylinders — and that means keeping both running backs actively involved.
If the Lions don’t restore a healthier split soon, they risk burning out their most dynamic player just when they need him most.
