Rams’ Running Back Conundrum: Is Kyren Williams Alone Enough?
In a league obsessed with specialization and maximizing every offensive weapon, the Los Angeles Rams’ singular focus on Kyren Williams in the backfield, despite significant investment in other talent, raises a critical question: are they leaving potential explosive plays and crucial late-season freshness on the table?
The Rams’ Running Back Investments
Over the last few offseasons, the Rams have made a clear effort to bolster their running back corps. This commitment was evident in the third-round selection of Blake Corum from Michigan last year and the fourth-round pick of Jarquez Hunter this past offseason. Adding to this depth, they also extended Kyren Williams, solidifying his role as a top-10 player at his position.
McVay’s Reliance on Williams
Despite these acquisitions, Head Coach Sean McVay’s strategy appears to be a “one guy and one guy only” approach, heavily favoring Williams. In Week 1 against the Houston Texans, Williams dominated the snaps, carrying the ball 18 times for 66 yards and a touchdown. While he averaged a respectable 3.7 yards per carry, his 3.4 yards after contact suggests he was often making the most of what was blocked. His advanced metrics painted a picture of efficiency within limitations: -0.3 rushing yards over expected per attempt (21st among qualified backs) and a 0.6 rushing EPA per attempt (ninth). His 44 percent success rate also ranked 14th.
The “Singles” Hitter
The data from Week 1 seems to confirm a recurring theme for Williams: he consistently maximizes his opportunities, even if they aren’t game-breaking. Last season, he notably finished with exactly zero RYOE, a statistic that, while potentially a testament to his ability to grind out yards against tough defenses, also highlights a lack of explosive runs. His longest carry in Week 1 was a mere nine yards, underscoring this “singles” hitter mentality.
Corum’s Limited Role: A Third-Round Enigma?
Speculation during the offseason hinted at a more involved role for Blake Corum, especially as a means to keep Williams fresh throughout the grueling 17-game season. However, Week 1 painted a starkly different picture. Williams handled 18 of the team’s 19 running back carries, playing a staggering 81.7% of the snaps. While other players like Puka Nacua and Jordan Whittington were utilized in the run game, Corum’s single carry came late in the third quarter. This minimal involvement for a player drafted in the third round naturally leads to questions about the Rams’ draft strategy and their long-term vision for the backfield.
The Pass Protection Paradox
A common justification for limited snaps for running backs can be their proficiency in pass protection. However, the Week 1 data offers a surprising counterpoint. Among running backs with at least five pass-blocking snaps, Williams ranked a dismal 20th out of 22, allowing the most quarterback pressures according to PFF, and holding the last-place spot in pass-blocking efficiency. This raises the question of whether Corum, now in his second year in the offense and having had another full offseason, might be a more viable option in protection, potentially freeing up Williams for more traditional rushing duties.
Strategic Matchup or Emerging Trend?
It’s plausible that the Rams’ Week 1 usage was heavily influenced by the specific opponent. Against a Texans defense that might have been perceived as susceptible to a strong ground game centered around Williams, McVay might have opted for his proven workhorse. However, the expectation should be an increased involvement for Corum as the season progresses, particularly as the Rams prepare to face the Tennessee Titans in Week 2.
McVay’s Historical Tendencies vs. Long-Term Strategy
Throughout his tenure, Sean McVay has shown a tendency to lean heavily on a primary running back when he trusts them. While this can establish a clear offensive identity, a more diverse approach might be beneficial for sustained success. Introducing a player like Corum, who likely possesses a different running style and skillset, could add a valuable element of unpredictability to the Rams’ run game. Instead of a predictable “fastball,” adding Corum could provide the “changeup” needed to keep defenses guessing and create more opportunities for big plays.
Week 1 is a small sample size, and the Rams’ heavy reliance on Kyren Williams might not be indicative of their entire season’s plan. Williams is undeniably the heartbeat of the current backfield. Yet, if the Rams are serious about preserving Williams for the long haul and injecting more dynamism into their rushing attack, a more balanced approach to distributing carries between him and Corum will be essential. This strategic shift could unlock a new gear for the Rams’ offense.
What are your predictions for the Rams’ running back usage as the season unfolds? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
