In the upcoming NFC Championship Game, the Detroit Lions are counting on rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs to play a crucial role in breaking down the San Francisco 49ers’ defense and securing a historic trip to the Super Bowl. As the Lions’ offensive strategy aims to establish the run and limit the opponent’s ground game, Gibbs has become an increasingly important and explosive option.
Drew Ellis, lead writer for Play Michigan, expects Gibbs to continue his stellar postseason performance against the 49ers. “Jahmyr Gibbs has proven to be an important and explosive option for the Detroit offense in the playoffs. His receiving load has increased, and he’s always a threat to break a big run,” says Ellis. He notes that San Francisco struggled to contain Aaron Jones in the previous playoff game, particularly with backs getting to the outside.
Ellis predicts that Gibbs, with his impressive production, will play a significant role in the game plan. With quarterback Jared Goff likely looking to Gibbs in the flat and the middle of the field, and the potential for around 10 carries, Ellis suggests placing a bet on Gibbs to surpass 76.5 rushing and receiving yards on Sunday evening.
Gibbs, Detroit’s first-round draft pick, has shown improvement in pass protection, and his effectiveness in the passing game has become more apparent as the season progressed. Head coach Dan Campbell acknowledges Gibbs’s development, describing him as a complete back who has continued to evolve. “He’s playing at a high level right now,” adds Campbell, emphasizing Gibbs’s contributions to the team’s success.