Lions’ investments in running game paying off for top-seeded team opening playoffs with Commanders
ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — The Detroit Lions were built to run.
Detroit’s longest-tenured players, offensive tackle Taylor Decker and center Frank Ragnow, were first-round picks in 2016 and 2018.
In general manager Brad Holmes’ first draft with the Lions in 2021, he selected two-time All-Pro tackle Penei Sewell with the No. 7 overall pick.
Detroit bolstered the backfield in 2023, signing free agent David Montgomery and drafting Jahmyr Gibbs in the first round. The Lions also addressed a desperate need in free agency by adding guard Kevin Zeitler last offseason.
Detroit, a top-seeded team in the NFL playoffs for the first time, has one of the league’s best ground games.
While the running backs get much of the praise, Montgomery said the big guys up front deserve more love.
“We’ve got the best O-line in the world,” Montgomery said. “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.”
The sixth-seeded Washington Commanders, who will play at Detroit on Saturday night in the divisional round, are well aware of the upcoming challenge that will test one of their weaknesses.
“Hats off, they’ve got two backs, very physical, perimeter and whatnot,” Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu said. “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 ranked 30th in the 32-team league against the run during the regular season, giving up 137.5 yards rushing per game. In a 23-20 win over Tampa Bay in the wild-card round last Sunday night, the Buccaneers ran for 101 yard
Gibbs and Montgomery averaged a combined 138.5 yards rushing during the regular season and had fun off the field embracing their Sonic and Knuckles nicknames.
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