Jahmyr Gibbs Makes NFL History, Matches Barry Sanders’ Early-Career TD Record

Detroit Lions star Jahmyr Gibbs rushed for 3 touchdowns against the resurgent Dallas Cowboys defense in their Week 14 clash.

Jahmyr Gibbs Makes NFL History, Matches Barry Sanders’ Early-Career TD Record

Jahmyr Gibbs matched the great Barry Sanders (Image via NFL+/X)

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Jahmyr Gibbs and his Detroit Lions were about to face a retooled Dallas Cowboys defense on Thursday, which was coming off two impressive wins against both Super Bowl LIX finalists.

The confidence in that unit was high enough that there was growing belief among them that America’s Team could emerge as a frontrunner for Super Bowl LX.

Their recent additions were playing well, and their performance against standout running back Saquon Barkley was exceptional. Entering this game, they believed the unit was good enough against the twin-headed running back attack the Lions usually deploy.

The home team went in with a plan of trying to use short and intermediate throws and runs to try to wear down the Cowboys’ defense. That plan worked in the 1st quarter, when Jahmyr Gibbs needed just 1 yard to score the first touchdown of the game.

In the second, it was his partner-in-crime, David Montgomery‘s turn. But this time, the 28-year-old exposed the Cowboys’ flaws by running away for a 35-yard score.

Later, in the 2nd half, the away team tried their best to get close to the Lions’ score. Knowing they had to burn time, the Lions reverted to their run game, and this time Gibbs scored again on a 10-yard run.

A couple of drives later, Gibbs was back at it again, this time running untouched towards the right side of the field to score his third touchdown of the game.

Not only did that cement the Lions’ win, but it also saw the Alabama star notch his 47th TD of his career. With that, he matched the great Barry Sanders for touchdowns in a player’s first 3 seasons.

Jahmyr Gibbs hands record-matching TD ball to girlfriend

Gibbs is, without a doubt, one of the better young running backs in the league. Coming in as the 12th overall pick back in 2023, the Georgia native has been crucial to the Detroit Lions’ resurgence.

One of the reasons he keeps his head steady and focused is due to his life outside of football. The star is in a relationship with Nicole Anderson, which became official after he was drafted.

It is unknown how long they have been dating, but their activities on and off the field have indicated that the two are very much into each other. The real estate agent and model has been a pillar of support for her boyfriend, and tries to attend every game.

She was there this time too and was at hand to watch the star running back single-handedly steer his Lions to a much-needed and impressive victory.

Jahmyr Gibbs decided to celebrate his matching an NFL record, as he ran over to Anderson after his third touchdown, and handed over the ball. Even if he does break the record in the remaining 4 games, this ball is precious, as he managed to match Lions’ legend Barry Sanders.

Jahmyr Gibbs gets high praise from Dan Campbell

After such a game, where Jahmyr Gibbs not only matched a franchise and league legend, he also made sure he executed exactly how his team wanted him to. No wonder Dan Campbell had this to say after the game.

Jahmyr Gibbs surrounded by teammates after a touchdown
Jahmyr Gibbs surrounded by teammates after a touchdown (Image via Underdog/X)

He just keeps going, man. There’s just not a cap on this dude yet. He works his tail off, he’s freaking smart, he’s instinctive, he’s a team guy. He’s something else. The sky is the limit for him. He’s just getting started.

Dan Campbell told reporters

If the head coach believes the sky is the limit, then it might not be long before the 5′ 9″ star starts to see his name being touted around as the best running back in the league.

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