Analyst points to sustainable role for David Montgomery in Lions' offense

The Detroit Lions received a big effort from David Montgomery against the Kansas City Chiefs, with 21 carries, 74 yards and the deciding touchdown. But what can they expect moving forward?

ESPN's Dan Graziano was asked to select a performance from Week 1 in the NFL that is sustainable moving forward. He singled out Montgomery.

"After the Lions picked Jahmyr Gibbs with the No. 12 overall pick in April, there were some who wondered why they had signed Montgomery in free agency. His usage in the season-opening victory over the Chiefs answered that question and showed the way Detroit wants to play on offense. Gibbs will be a big part of things, but I see the Lions relying on Montgomery a lot as a traditional between-the-tackles runner as a centerpiece of their offense. He carried the ball 21 times for 74 yards and a touchdown last Thursday."

- Dan Graziano

Jahmyr Gibbs figures to be in line for a bigger role at running back, but the Lions seemed to make Montgomery the centerpiece of the backfield most of the night against the Chiefs..

Jared Goff praises Lions' offensive line for Week 1 performance

Another thing that could help Montgomery sustain a big role? An elite offensive line. The group stood out in Week 1, not only paving holes for the run game but protecting Jared Goff.

Speaking to the media earlier this week, Goff said that he liked watching the group dominate and come together.

"It was fun. That's a cohesive group. They're starting to come together and I know they're as critical of themselves as anybody. But they played well, man. They did a good job and I feel great behind them."

- Jared Goff

The Lions rushed for 118 yards against the Chiefs. The fact that Montgomery did the heaviest lifting in that effort seems to be good for his future prospects.