As Michael Corleone famously said in *The Godfather*, “If I ever need help, who is a better consigliere than my father?” For new Buffalo Bills running back Frank Gore Jr., the guidance of his renowned father, Frank Gore Sr., is expected to be invaluable as he adjusts to his new team in western New York. Meanwhile, the veteran running back, widely regarded as a future Pro Football Hall of Famer, is not only thrilled with his son’s performance but also proud of his debut. In Buffalo’s 31-26 defeat to the Carolina Panthers at Highmark Stadium on Saturday, Gore Jr. showcased his dual-threat abilities, rushing for 101 yards on 18 carries and scoring a touchdown. Despite the loss, the postgame moment shared between father and son was both proud and touching.Since joining the Southern Miss Golden Eagles in 2020, Gore Jr. has proven to be a powerful and effective runner. Standing at 5-8 and weighing 200 pounds, his standout season came in 2022, where he averaged 6.1 yards per carry, amassing 1,382 yards and nine touchdowns, earning first-team All Sun Belt honors. Last year, he averaged 4.9 yards per carry, totaling 1,131 yards and 10 touchdowns, and also contributed 27 receptions for 221 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, he was named offensive MVP at February’s East-West Shrine Bowl. Despite being smaller than most professional running backs, his toughness and sharp instincts are expected to make him a valuable asset in situational plays and as a versatile receiver out of the backfield. He could also be utilized as a quarterback in trick plays, as demonstrated by his two touchdown passes in a 2021 game against Louisiana Tech. While it’s premature to expect his career to mirror his father’s impressive achievements, Gore Sr.’s endorsement of his son carries significant weight. The five-time Pro Bowler, known for his productivity and durability, also has experience with the Bills, having played for them in 2019. That season, Gore Sr. recorded 166 carries for 599 yards and two touchdowns, plus 13 receptions for 100 yards. Although Gore Jr.’s future performance remains to be seen, his lineage and skills suggest he could make a meaningful impact in Buffalo’s backfield.
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