Former Virginia Tech star Khalil Herbert has a career day for the Chicago Bears

Former Virginia Tech running back Khalil Herbert made the first start of his young NFL career for the Chicago Bears on Sunday. With starting running back David Montgomery sidelined with an injury, Herbert delivered a standout game for Chicago, rushing for 97 yards on 19 attempts and scoring his first career NFL touchdown.

While the Bears came up short, losing 24-14 to the Green Bay Packers, Herbert was Chicago’s most impressive offensive performer in the loss.

Chicago head coach Matt Nagy was certainly impressed with the former Hokie.

“I really liked the way that he ran the football,” Nagy said via Gene Chamberlain of Sports Illustrated. “It was just like last week—when he makes the one cut and stocks that left or right foot in the ground, he gets vertical, makes some good plays.”

Montgomery’s injury isn’t expected to keep him out for a long time. However, Herbert impressed coaches and his teammates with his performance on Sunday.

Herbert was his usual humble self after the game.

“I prepare the same way, like I’m the starter or not,” Herbert said. “The guys did a great job of helping me get ready these last two weeks. I come in with the same mindset every day.”

Montgomery rushed for over 100 yards in two of the four games he started, so while Herbert may not take over the role of starting running back, he’s undoubtedly earned more opportunities moving forward.