In Ford Field, the energy was palpable. With Eminem’s iconic “Lose Yourself” resonating through the sound system, 64,201 fans roared with excitement. The rap legend, projected on the giant screens, marked the beginning of an unforgettable afternoon for the Detroit Lions in their inaugural game on September 14th.
From a box, an enthusiastic Eminem, wearing a Lions cap, briefly applauded before pointing to his left. The camera focused, and the crowd erupted in cheers upon recognizing another emblematic figure from Detroit: the legendary Lions Hall of Fame running back, Barry Sanders, sitting next to him.
Eminem, with affection, put his arm around Sanders, his childhood idol. Together, they looked at the camera, applauded, and shouted “Let’s go!” to ignite the euphoric fans.
In the field, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, motivated by Sanders’ presence, proved their worth. In the 52-21 victory against the Chicago Bears, they combined for 151 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Every time he’s in the game, I want to shine. He’s Barry Sanders. So, whenever he’s present, I make sure to be at my best.
Jahmyr Gibbs
Although Sanders’ playing days are behind him, Gibbs and Montgomery are inspired by his legacy. Sanders, who overcame a heart attack in the summer of 2024, has forged a strong relationship with both running backs since they joined the Lions in 2023. His constant presence in the organization is a reminder of the high standard that Sanders set on the field, a standard that they are determined to match.
I think it gives us the ability to realize the standard and what we have to meet, knowing that Barry walked the same field as us.
David Montgomery
David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs are on pace to surpass 1,000 yards this season.
Gibbs’ arrival in Detroit was an unforgettable moment. Sanders, along with other team legends, welcomed him at the airport. During the car ride, they shared personal stories and their passion for American football. Gibbs, who grew up admiring Sanders, even used the number 20 in honor of his idol.
Since then, their bond has strengthened. Gibbs knows he can count on Sanders for support, and the answer is usually simple: “Go and kill them.”
Montgomery, for his part, has also been influenced by Sanders. Although he does not share the details of their conversations, Sanders’ impact has been profound.
Sanders, now a team ambassador, has been more present in the organization since his retirement. The Lions’ running backs have been the main beneficiaries, witnessing the unveiling of his statue at Ford Field and attending the premiere of his documentary “Bye Bye Barry”, which has given them a greater appreciation for his career.
During his golden era, Sanders was recognized as one of the league’s most electrifying players. He currently ranks fourth on the NFL’s all-time rushing list, with 15,269 yards in just 10 seasons. His plays have continued to inspire players like Gibbs and Montgomery.
That made me want to work harder. I want to do everything I can to be as good as him. It gave me a broad perspective that I need to push myself harder.
Scottie Montgomery, running backs coach last season, highlighted Sanders’ impact on Gibbs, helping him aspire to greatness. Sanders’ presence, and his humility, has raised the team’s standards.Barry Sanders forged a connection with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery shortly after they both joined Detroit in the spring of 2023.
Sanders faced a health scare on June 16, 2024, experiencing chest pain that turned out to be a heart attack. Despite the pain, he attended a football recruiting trip with his youngest son. Following the incident, he was hospitalized and underwent treatment that included exercise, diet, and medication.
His eldest son, Barry J. Sanders, moved to be closer to his father and ensure he followed his health regimen. News of the heart attack shocked the Lions organization. Sanders has since shared his experience and participated in a documentary about heart disease.Barry Sanders spent three days in the hospital after suffering a heart attack over Father’s Day weekend last year.
In a joint practice with the Miami Dolphins, Sanders watched his protégés. He highlighted Gibbs and Montgomery’s ability to find spaces and their teamwork.
Last season, they helped the Lions average 146.4 rushing yards per game, the most since 1997. Gibbs and Montgomery have also scored touchdowns in the same game 14 times. In the game against Tampa Bay, they will have the opportunity to break the tie with Emmitt Smith and Daryl Johnston for the most touchdowns by a running back duo in the Super Bowl era (since 1966).
Sanders predicts another great year for Detroit’s running backs. Gibbs leads the team with 390 rushing yards and four touchdowns, while Montgomery follows closely with 334 yards and four touchdowns.
Gibbs and Montgomery are aware that the responsibility of maintaining Sanders’ legacy is an honor they take very seriously.
