By Sunday 
When Barry Sanders speaks, Detroit listens.
The Hall of Fame running back — and arguably the greatest Lion of all time — has seen plenty of heartbreak during his time with the team. So when Sanders says this current backfield duo could carry the Lions to a Super Bowl, it’s worth paying attention.
The Best One-Two Punch in the League?
Speaking with USA Today, Sanders didn’t hold back on his praise for running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.
“They’re the best duo in the NFL and there’s no reason that’s going to change any time soon,” Sanders said. “If a Super Bowl is in our future, in our near future, you would think those two guys would be a big part of it.”
High praise from a legend who knows a thing or two about carrying a team.
Building on Breakout Seasons
The 2023 season marked a clear turning point for Detroit — their best regular season in nearly 70 years. And while their playoff hopes fizzled too soon, Gibbs and Montgomery gave fans plenty to be excited about.
Sanders has long been a fan of Montgomery’s game — even before he joined the Lions from Chicago.
“David Montgomery, he’s been a great running back in the NFL for many years, and he just added to that coming over from the Bears and putting him with this Lions offensive line,” Sanders said.
As for Gibbs, the second-year back stepped up in a big way when Montgomery was sidelined with a knee injury.
“You see what Jahmyr Gibbs was able to do last season… I felt like last year was more of a breakout season for him,” Sanders noted.
Can They Carry Detroit to the Top?
The idea that teams can still ride a strong run game deep into the postseason is making a comeback — just ask the Eagles and Saquon Barkley. For Detroit, it might not be one superstar but two powerful backs sharing the load that gets them there.
Sanders thinks the key to finally breaking through the playoff barrier lies in sticking to the ground game. And honestly, after watching Gibbs’ explosive speed and Montgomery’s relentless drive last year, it’s hard to argue.
The Lions have a chance — and according to their greatest offensive icon, they’ve got the backfield to make a real run at it.