Los Angeles Rams RB Kyren Williams Dominates Arizona Cardinals In Return From Injury
The Los Angeles Rams won their second straight divisional game on Sunday, crushing the Arizona Cardinals 37-14 at State Farm Stadium.
While it takes a complete team effort to win in such a fashion, one Ram in particular stood out in a big way. That player was none other than running back Kyren Williams, who played his first game since suffering an ankle sprain on Oct. 15.
In his first game back, Williams showed just how badly the Rams missed him. As if 143 rushing yards on nearly nine yards per carry wasn't good enough, Williams was also dynamic as a receiver with an additional 61 yards and two touchdowns. In a game that saw the Rams put up arguably their best offensive performance of the season, Williams was undoubtedly the team's MVP.
Williams celebrates with Rams fans during Sunday's game.
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
In fact, it's not an exaggeration to say that the Rams are a completely different team when Williams is on the field. In the seven games he's played this season, L.A. has averaged 25 points, 379.9 total yards and 125.3 rushing yards per game. In the four games he missed, the Rams averaged 14.3 points, 272 total yards and 94.3 rushing yards.
Of course, there are other factors to account for, such as the fact that quarterback Matthew Stafford also missed time during that same stretch. However, it's very clear to see how big of an impact Williams' presence has.
"He's got a play energy and he's got just such a good charisma and presence," coach Sean McVay told reporters Friday. "That play energy I think is one of the better ways that I could describe it in terms of he elevates guys around him, he's so engaged, he's so coachable. This is a guy that...he loves the game. He loves to compete."
A fifth-round pick out of Notre Dame, Williams had his rookie season marred by by injuries. Now, though, he's the feature back for a Rams team that is clawing its way back into the playoff picture.
