Best Bet: Jahmyr Gibbs Proves Doubters Wrong at Ford Field

Jahmyr Gibbs will be utilized more at Ford Field in the home opener.

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs will play in front of the home crowd for the first time in a regular season game when the Seahawks visit Ford Field. 

After critics panned general manager Brad Holmes for targeting a running back on Day 1 of the draft, many are now starting to realize what impact the former Alabama product can have on an offense, if utilized correctly. 

Offensive coordinator Ben Johnson noted this week, "I mean he’s special. It’s everything that we saw on tape and it’s just good to see it translate over to this level."

Play Michigan lead writer Drew Ellis sees Gibbs as a player Detroit's offense utilizes against the Seahawks, especially given Johnson's wide receiving unit does not feature many speedy deep threats. 

More: Predictions: Seahawks-Lions 

Ellis tells All Lions, "Gibbs showed how electric a player he can be in the season opener with just nine touches. He rushed for 42 yards on seven carries while catching two passes for 18 yards. Dan Campbell admitted that the Lions will work Gibbs more into the offense going forward. What better way to do that than at the fast track of Ford Field in the home opener. 

"Fans will be anxious to see the first round pick and his quickness and speed is destined to lead to explosive plays. Whether it's on a run, a screen or a downfield pass route, Gibbs is going to get double-digit touches, which should lead to at least 75 total yards of offense against Seattle," Ellis explained further. "The Seahawks struggled with chunk plays, giving up four of 20 yards or more to the Rams last week. That is why my best bet this week is Gibbs going over the total of 71.5 yards rushing and receiving combined. 

Another bet, if interested, is Gibbs to go over 26.5 receiving yards. While Montgomery could be targeted more in the passing attack, the talented rookie has the potential on any given pass to break tackles and score a touchdown.