The Los Angeles Rams are banking on their revitalized running game as they aim for a strong playoff performance in the 2025 NFL season. Under the guidance of head coach Sean McVay, the team’s ground attack has moved to the forefront, resembling the style that propelled the Rams to the Super Bowl in 2018. With a success rate of over 50% on carries by running backs, the 2025 Rams are on the verge of establishing themselves as one of the league’s premier rushing offenses.
The Rams’ running game is critical in maintaining offensive momentum. The team’s current success rate stands at 50.12%, just behind the 2018 Rams’ record of 50.13%. Notably, this statistic measures how likely a play is to contribute positively to scoring on a drive. In a league where the passing game often steals the spotlight, the Rams are proving that a strong run game is essential for their playoff aspirations.
In 2018, the Rams were led by Todd Gurley, who was a dominant force. Fast forward to 2025, and the running back duo of Kyren Williams and Blake Corum is making waves. Their performance is reminiscent of the 2018 success, showcasing how fundamental the run game is to the Rams’ overall offensive strategy.
For McVay, the shift back to a successful run game is not just about nostalgia; it reflects a tactical evolution. In the past, the Rams relied heavily on the outside zone scheme, which focused on stretching the defense horizontally. This approach opened up lanes for Gurley, who capitalized on the space created by the offensive line. Now, the Rams have pivoted to a more versatile “duo” running scheme, which has become a staple in their playbook.
The “duo” concept involves offensive linemen double-teaming defensive tackles and patiently reading the defense to create running lanes. This technique has been effective for the Rams, who utilize it on over 40% of their handoffs. The success of this approach can be attributed to the chemistry of the offensive line and the decision-making abilities of the running backs.
Williams, a seventh-round pick in 2022, has emerged as a reliable option. His ability to navigate through defenses has made him a key player in the Rams’ rushing attack. Meanwhile, Corum has also developed into a productive runner, adding depth to the backfield. The combination of their skills allows the Rams to execute the duo runs effectively, creating opportunities for significant gains on the ground.
As the Rams prepare for their upcoming playoff matchup, the running game will be pivotal in establishing offensive balance. The addition of Davante Adams has bolstered their passing attack, but the ground game remains the foundation. McVay has recognized that a potent rushing offense opens up avenues for the passing game, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the team.
Historically, the Rams’ success has been linked to their ability to maintain a balanced offensive strategy. In the past, when the running game faltered, so did the entire offense. The 2019 season is a prime example, as injuries and changes in personnel led to a significant drop in rushing success rate, plummeting to 39.2%. This decline contributed to the team’s struggles, highlighting the critical role of a strong running game.
As McVay prepares for their playoff journey, he faces the challenge of overcoming past performances at Soldier Field, where he is winless. The memories of previous playoff disappointments linger, but the current Rams squad is poised to rewrite that narrative.
The Rams’ playoff ambitions hinge on their ability to integrate a successful running game with an effective passing strategy. With Stafford leading the charge and a formidable duo of running backs, the Los Angeles Rams are set to make a strong push for the championship, grounded in the lessons learned from their storied past.
