The running game will prove crucial for the Rams-Cardinals on both sides

The Los Angeles Rams (9-6) prepare for another must-win contest this Saturday as they host the Arizona Cardinals (7-8) at SoFi Stadium in Week 17. The Rams have a chance to win their division with a win. The win and the running game will be the deciding factor in who emerges victorious.

The last time these two teams met was in Week 2. The Cardinals defeated the Rams 41-10 in Glendale, Arizona, with one of the toughest offensive performances of the year from head coach Sean McVay’s offense.

The Rams mustered just 53 rushing yards in the loss, with third-year star running back Kyren Williams having his worst game of the season with just 25 rushing yards on 12 carries and a touchdown. He will need a big game for the Rams to have success.

Williams has rushed for over 100 yards in three of his last four games and has totaled 130 rush yards in the last two contests. He is currently on a hot streak and will get a large number of carries to try and establish a strong running game, something they failed to do last game.

“He (Williams) is a warrior. “He’s as mentally strong as they come,” offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur said of Williams. “He’s not the biggest, but he has a fighting spirit. This guy has an energy that all guys benefit from. I think we’re seeing his best ball right now and I know he even feels like there’s more out there.”