With running back Darrell Henderson starting availability as a playing time decision and third-place Buddy Howell placed on the injured reserve list, the Rams were unsure whether they should rely on Sony Michel as the only carrier. balloon in the day today. take on the Jacksonville Jaguars. But Jay Glazer announced Sunday morning that Henderson would be active against the Jaguars, despite Michel being the main ball carrier.
.@JayGlazer just now: “Darrell Henderson, it didn’t look like he was going to go, playing time decision. However, the Rams expect him to actually be available, but not the comeback feature , which goes to Sony Michel. “
– John Paulsen (@ 4for4_John) December 5, 2021
In a normal situation, this should be a good game for the Rams rushing offense. The Jags are averaging 29 carries and 116 yards per game this season, but LA’s running back unit is suddenly thin.
The LA Rams running game has averaged 18 carries and 70 yards in their last three games, all of which are losses.
It seems logical that Michel is able to handle this workload. He’s a tough north-south runner who can catch passes and a willful blocker. It’s fair to compare his skills with ex-Ram Malcom Brown, Michel is a bit more dynamic, but hasn’t shown it in Los Angeles.
Michel was acquired ahead of the Rams’ season opener to bolster a unit that had lost its top full-back Cam Akers to injury and replacement Henderson who has a history of minor injuries.
Michel’s runs per game increased steadily, peaking at 20 against Tampa Bay, until an early fumble in the loss to Arizona Cardinal. He’s been frozen since, registering around seven races per game.
For today’s game, LA activated recently signed Mekhi Sargent from the practice squad. Sargent is cut from the same fabric as Michel, a murderer who can crush tough yards.
Transactions with LA rams:
• Reserve / Injured RB Buddy Howell
• Enabled, from Practice Squad WR Brandon Powell
• Activated by RB Mekhi Sargent training team– Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) December 4, 2021
The Brandon Powell wide turner / receiver has also been activated. He might get a glimpse of kickoff returns.
Will the Rams pass it 50 times, or will they use Michel to beat a team that’s in the bottom five of ground defense?