Remarkably, second-year running back Kyren Williams—rather than star quarterback Matthew Stafford or wide receiver Cooper Kupp—is the key to the Los Angeles Rams’ postseason push.
When the former fifth-round pick has 15 or more rushing attempts, Los Angeles is 4-0, according to NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger. The Notre Dame product amassed 16 carries for 143 yards and added six receptions for 61 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday’s 37-14 victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
The 23-year-old’s outstanding performance allayed worries about him after he missed four games due to an ankle injury. When asked how his ankle felt by reporters after the win, Williams replied, “I want to say 200 percent at this time.”
Rams coach Sean McVay needs to exercise caution in order to avoid abusing Williams. But if he stays fit, he can tilt the field and be an offensive weapon. When the RB is in the lineup, Los Angeles scores 25 points per game on average, and he is third in the NFL in yards per carry (5.3).
“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,” the AP’s Greg Beacham wrote. “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.”