Surprisingly, second-year running back Kyren Williams is the key to the Los Angeles Rams’ playoff push, not star quarterback Matthew Stafford or wide receiver Cooper Kupp.
Los Angeles is 4-0 when the former fifth-round pick has 15 or more rushing attempts, according to NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger. The Notre Dame product had 16 carries for 143 yards and six receptions for 61 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday’s 37-14 win over the Arizona Cardinals.
The outstanding performance allayed fears about the 23-year-old, who had missed four games due to an ankle injury. When asked how his ankle felt after the victory, Williams said, “I want to say 200 percent at this time.”
Sean McVay, head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, must be cautious not to overuse Williams. However, if he stays healthy, he is an offensive weapon with the ability to shift the field. The RB ranks third in the NFL in yards per carry (5.3), and Los Angeles scores 25 points per game when he’s on the field.
“The second-year pro from St. Louis has raised his game exponentially midway through his second season, providing coach Sean McVay with options he hasn’t had for his offense since Todd Gurley’s heyday,” according to Greg Beacham of the Associated Press. “With a running back consistently fighting through contact and picking up extra yards while also providing a threat as a receiver, McVay’s playbook expands.”
The Rams (5-6) are about to embark on a difficult stretch. They have the league’s 11th-most difficult remaining schedule, according to Tankathon. According to the New York Times’ simulator, they have a 42 percent chance of making the playoffs. L.A. requires more outstanding performances from Williams in order to make that unlikely push.
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