Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs. Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Why Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs could be in for big day vs. Seahawks

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 9/14/23

After being used sparingly in Week 1 by the Detroit Lions, rookie running back Jahmyr Gibbs could be in for a breakout game Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks.

Gibbs received only seven carries in the Lions' season-opening victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Still, the Lions' brass has promised more touches for the former Alabama standout, which is probably a good move.

Despite touching the ball nine times in total, Gibbs looked impressive, and the stats back it up. Gibbs showed his elusiveness and toughness as a runner and receiver, posting 42 rushing yards (34 after contact) while averaging 4.9 yards after contact on his two receptions (18 yards). Furthermore, Gibbs forced six missed tackles, most in the NFL in Week 1. He earned the seventh-highest rushing grade (77.9) per Pro Football Focus, better than Austin Ekeler, Nick Chubb and Breece Hall, who had outstanding season openers.

Jahmyr Gibbs might be a problem @Jahmyr_Gibbs1

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Meanwhile, head coach Dan Campbell appears ready to unleash Gibbs, telling reporters, including Will Burchfield, that the Lions "love" the rookie before all but guaranteeing he'll see more action in Week 2.

If the Lions do let Gibbs loose against the Seahawks, it couldn't come against a more ideal opponent. In 2022, the Seahawks finished 27th in the NFL against the run and struggled mightily to slow down opposing running backs in all facets of the game.

Seattle gave up the sixth-most rushing yards to running backs (1,952), and only the Chiefs (806), Arizona Cardinals (810), Jacksonville Jaguars (815), and Las Vegas Raiders (818) gave up more receiving yards to backs than the Seahawks (788).

Last week, the combination of Kyren Williams and Cam Akers gave the Seahawks fits. Williams and Akers combined for 81 yards on the ground and three touchdowns on 37 carries against Seattle, so the table is set for the Lions young rookie to make his mark.

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