Meanwhile, Newsome delivered when called upon in the Bolts' other huge primetime comeback when they stormed back from a late deficit to stun the Kansas City Chiefs, 29-8, and clinch a playoff berth. He played a career-high 18 offensive snaps, totaling 34 yards on six carries (5.7 ypc) with two catches for 19 yards. All in all, Newsome totaled 11 carries in 2018 for 49 yards (4.5 ypc).

"We both stepped up when we needed to when the team needed us," Jackson said. "Like Melvin (Gordon) always tells us, we've got to go out there and work every day like we are the starter because you never know when you'll be needed to. And then you'll have to help the team. And that's what we did."

The way each back produced in those situations is a major reason why Offensive Coordinator Ken Whisenhunt is a big fan of both players. At the same time, Whiz explained they each must take another leap forward heading into year two, which is when players most often see significant growth.