Lions legend Barry Sanders’ eye-opening message to Jahmyr Gibbs has fans wanting him at every game
After falling prey to Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs on the road in Week 6, the Detroit Lions roared back to life and returned to their winning ways on Monday, crushing the Baker Mayfield-led Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Ford Field in Detroit to the tune of a 24-9 score.
Gibbs was simply sensational against the Buccaneers, who seemingly had no answer for him. The former Alabama Crimson Tide star running back gashed Tampa Bay's defense for 136 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries. A bulk of his total yardage came from just one huge play in the second quarter, where he burned rubber for a career-best 78-yard rushing score that put the Lions ahead, 14-0.
So good was Gibbs in the Buccaneers game that he earned a shoutout from Detroit legend Barry Sanders, who was also in attendance.
“I read in @espn today that @Jahmyr_Gibbs1 like to show out when I come to @fordfield I see you young fella,” wrote Sanders on X, formerly Twitter.
Sanders' post has led many to express their desire to see more of him in Lions games.
“We will need you on the sideline for every game going forward please,” reacted a fan to Sanders' post.
“Please come to every game!” requested another social media user.
“If that’s all it takes, you’re going to every away road game too, right? Also how about the Defense today!” another commenter shared.
From a different fan on X: “Please go to Ford Field every game.”
“Barry if you know this we better see you at every home game the rest of the season,” one said.
In addition to his exploits on the ground, Gibbs also recorded a total of 82 receiving yards on just three catches and three targets versus the Buccaneers.
The Lions' rushing attack is perceived to be a two-headed monster consisting of Gibbs and David Montgomery, but the former undeniably shone the most on Monday. Montgomery rushed 13 times but coughed up just 31 yards on those touches.
Coming up next for the 5-2 Lions is a bye in Week 8. They will be back in action on Nov. 2 in a Week 9 showdown at home versus NFC North division rivals Minnesota Vikings.
Rico Dowdle Declares Determination: 'THEY DIDN'T BUCKLE UP, NOW IT'S TIME FOR THEM TO PAY THE PRICE!'
In a statement that has resonated throughout the NFL, Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle delivered a bold message after his explosive performance against the Chicago Bears. Known for his quiet demeanor, Dowdle surprised everyone by stepping into the spotlight and proclaiming that he was ready to face any challenge that came his way.
“They didn’t buckle up, and I was here to make them pay for it. I didn’t just show up to play this game—I showed up to prove that I can face any challenge head-on,” Dowdle declared after the game. “They weren’t ready for me, and now I’m ready to take this team to victory. This is just the beginning of what I’m going to do next, and I’m not stopping here.”
Dowdle’s words are a reflection of his growing confidence and his determination to make an impact. Despite being a relatively unheralded player on the Cowboys roster, Dowdle has steadily proven that he belongs in the conversation when discussing the team’s key players. His dynamic play in the backfield has given Dallas a much-needed spark in their running game, and his performance against the Bears highlighted just how dangerous he can be when fully unleashed.
The challenge Dowdle faces moving forward is not just about maintaining his current level of play, but about proving that he can continue to be a reliable force for the Cowboys as they push for a playoff spot. With Ezekiel Elliott’s departure and the rise of young talent, Dowdle has been given the opportunity to shine. His confidence and performance in critical moments are setting him up to become one of the Cowboys’ most important players in the coming weeks.
Dowdle’s fearless attitude is a refreshing change for the Cowboys, who have had their fair share of struggles in recent seasons. With the pressure mounting, it’s clear that Dowdle is ready to shoulder the responsibility. “This team needs me, and I’ll do whatever it takes to help us win. I’m not backing down from anyone, and I’ll show up every week,” Dowdle said.
While it’s easy to be swept up in the hype of one big game, Dowdle’s message is clear: he’s here to stay, and he’s ready to rise to the challenge. His words and actions will be closely watched as the Cowboys continue their push for the postseason.
