ALLEN PARK — Detroit Lions running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs go together like peanut butter and jelly.
“Some people like peanut butter, some like jelly, but a lot of people like them put together. That’s where we are with both of them,’’ Lions assistant head coach and running backs coach Scottie Montgomery said on Wednesday.
“That’s kind of where we are, I’m really happy with the development. It’s the kind of vision that (GM) Brad (Holmes) and Dan (Campbell) had. They’re doing a good job,’’ he added.
David Montgomery was signed as a free agent while Gibbs was drafted in the first round (a pick many skeptics did not like). Together the two have given the Lions a running game like they have not had in years. Many years.
And, the hope is that they’re just getting started with six games left in the regular season — including Sunday’s contest at the New Orleans Saints.
“This League is tough on backs, you get hit quite a bit. Part of the plan was when we got to December how fresh, how fast, how strong, how physical, could we continue to be,’’ Scottie Montgomery said.
When David Montgomery missed a pair of games in October due to injury, Gibbs made the most of his increased opportunities and has also become a better blocker.
Both have been healthy since the bye week and able to contribute in each game. The goal is not to split their touches 50-50 but to find the perfect blend each week.
“What Ben has done, he’s done a really really good job of making sure that they’re both really involved,’’ Scottie Montgomery said.
David Montgomery has 133 carries for 648 yards, 4.9 yards per carry and nine touchdowns, along with eight catches for 88 yards.
Gibbs has rushed 109 times for 566 yards, 5.2 per carry and 5 touchdowns, along with 41 receptions for 278 yards. In the first few weeks, he was slowly given more work and then proved he was capable.
“They’re both dangerous, they’re both really good backs. Hard-pressed to find a better duo in the League right now,’’ quarterback Jared Goff said. “Those guys are doing a helluva job, it’s fun to have them behind me and when I do have to check the ball down, being able to get it in their hands is a lot of fun too.’’
MOVES: The practice window for QB Hendon Hooker was opened when he participated in Wednesday’s practice. Hooker, a 2023 third-round draft pick, was coming off ACL surgery when drafted. Until now he’s been around the team, but has not been allowed to practice. … WR Tom Kennedy was signed to the practice squad, while WR Dylan Drummond was released.
WEDNESDAY INJURY REPORT: LB Alex Anzalone (hand) no practice; LG Jonah Jackson (ankle/wrist), RB David Montgomery (foot) and S Tracy Walker (shoulder) had limited practice.
Lions Lowdown 