Surprising player is the key to Rams' playoff push
Surprisingly, the key to the Los Angeles Rams' playoff push isn't star quarterback Matthew Stafford or wide receiver Cooper Kupp, but second-year running back Kyren Williams.
Per NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger, Los Angeles is 4-0 when the former fifth-round pick has 15 or more rushing attempts. In Sunday's 37-14 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, the Notre Dame product had 16 carries for 143 yards and added six receptions for 61 yards and two TDs.
The spectacular performance mitigated concerns about the 23-year-old, who had missed four games with an ankle injury. Following the victory, when reporters asked Williams how his ankle felt, he said, "I want to say 200 percent at this time."
Rams head coach Sean McVay must be careful to not overuse Williams. However, if he stays healthy, he's an offensive weapon who can tilt the field. The RB is third in the NFL in yards per carry (5.3), and L.A. averages 25 points per game when he's in the lineup.
"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," wrote 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 entering a challenging stretch. Per Tankathon, they have the league's 11th-most difficult remaining schedule. The New York Times' simulator notes they have a 42 percent chance to make the playoffs. To make that improbable push, L.A. needs Williams to turn in more excellent performances.
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