Kenneth Walker (Seattle Seahawks) vs Kyren Williams (Los Angeles Rams) on 26 January
As the NFL postseason momentum builds, one of the most tantalizing matchups on January 26th will feature two electrifying running backs: Kenneth Walker of the Seattle Seahawks and Kyren Williams of the Los Angeles Rams. These two teams, brimming with playoff aspirations, will clash in what promises to be a hard-hitting, high-stakes encounter at Lumen Field in Seattle. With the playoff picture tightening, both the Seahawks and Rams know the importance of securing a vital win to bolster their postseason hopes. For both teams, this game is more than just about running the ball—it's about defining their identity in the trenches and battling for every inch of the field.
Kenneth Walker (Seattle Seahawks): Tactical Approach and Current Form
The Seattle Seahawks have leaned heavily on their rushing attack throughout the 2023 season, and at the heart of this ground game is Kenneth Walker. The second-year back has quickly become one of the most dynamic players in the league, amassing over 1,100 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on the season. Walker’s power and speed allow Seattle to establish a balanced offensive scheme, where the run opens up play-action opportunities for Geno Smith and the passing game. The Seahawks' offensive line has done a solid job of creating running lanes, ranking in the upper tier of the league for run-blocking efficiency. Walker’s impressive vision and ability to break tackles allow him to turn short gains into explosive plays, making him the engine of Seattle’s attack.
In the last five games, Seattle’s offense has averaged 26.4 points per game, with Walker contributing significantly to this surge. His ability to maintain positive yardage on first and second downs is key to their success, allowing Smith to operate in favorable situations. However, Seattle’s offensive line has shown some cracks, particularly in pass protection, which could be a vulnerability for the team if the Rams’ front seven applies consistent pressure. Walker’s consistency will be crucial as the Seahawks aim to control the clock and keep the Rams' offense off the field.
Injuries could also play a role in Walker’s performance. As of now, there have been no major concerns with his fitness, but any nagging injuries could hamper his explosiveness. If Walker is held to under 4 yards per carry, it could be a sign of a difficult day for Seattle's offense.
Kyren Williams (Los Angeles Rams): Tactical Approach and Current Form
Kyren Williams, the young running back for the Los Angeles Rams, has quietly emerged as a critical component of Sean McVay’s offense. Williams has showcased versatility in both the run and pass game, tallying over 850 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns while also contributing as a receiving threat out of the backfield. McVay’s offense typically operates through the play-action pass, and Williams’ ability to be a dual-threat makes him even more dangerous. His precise route-running and knack for gaining extra yards after contact have allowed the Rams to sustain drives and keep opposing defenses on edge.
In the past five games, the Rams have averaged 23.6 points per game. Williams has been a steady producer during this stretch, though the Rams have struggled to find consistent success on the ground. Williams, however, has the potential to exploit Seattle's defense, especially considering their vulnerability to outside runs and zone schemes. The Rams will need Williams to shoulder a significant portion of the workload, especially with Matthew Stafford’s health in question, and the passing game has struggled at times without a fully fit Cooper Kupp.
In terms of injury concerns, Williams has been relatively healthy throughout the season, but any setback would force the Rams to rely on a committee approach, which would disrupt their offensive flow. For the Rams to win, Williams must continue his role as both a rusher and a receiver while helping to sustain time of possession and limit Seattle’s offensive opportunities.
Head-to-Head: History and Psychology
Over the past few seasons, Seattle and Los Angeles have developed a fierce rivalry, with both teams consistently competing for NFC West supremacy. In the last five meetings, the Rams have edged out the Seahawks in three of those matchups, showcasing their defensive prowess and strategic use of the passing game to control tempo. However, Seattle managed to secure a key victory in the 2022 season, largely due to a dominant rushing performance from Walker, who ran for over 150 yards and two touchdowns. The Rams, on the other hand, have had success when they’ve been able to neutralize the ground game and force Geno Smith into obvious passing situations.
Historically, the Rams have excelled in games where they can generate pressure on the quarterback and force turnovers. The Seahawks, meanwhile, are at their best when they can dominate the time of possession and control the pace of the game with a strong running attack. This clash of styles is what makes this rivalry so compelling, and it is certain to have a psychological edge, with both teams fighting not just for the win, but for mental dominance as the playoff race continues.
Key Battles and Critical Zones
The most crucial positional battle in this game will be the duel between the Seahawks’ offensive line and the Rams’ defensive front. Los Angeles' front seven, led by star pass-rusher Aaron Donald, will look to disrupt Seattle’s running game and create havoc for Geno Smith. If Donald can command double teams and penetrate the pocket, he will force the Seahawks’ offense into uncomfortable situations, limiting Walker’s effectiveness on the ground.
On the flip side, the Rams' offensive line must contend with Seattle’s linebacker corps, led by Jordyn Brooks, who is adept at stopping the run and is a physical presence in the middle of the field. The Rams will need Williams to find success on outside runs and make defenders miss in space. The success of these running games will hinge on who can dominate the line of scrimmage.
Another key battle will occur in the secondary, where the Rams’ cornerbacks will have to deal with the dynamic playmaking ability of Tyler Lockett and DK Metcalf. If the Rams' secondary struggles in one-on-one coverage, it could open up big play opportunities for the Seahawks’ receivers, making it harder for the Rams to execute their defensive scheme.
Match Scenario and Prediction
This game is likely to be a tactical war in the trenches, with both teams striving to establish the run early and control the tempo of the game. Seattle will attempt to exploit their ground game with Walker and control the clock, while Los Angeles will look to keep Seattle's defense guessing with Williams’ dual-threat capabilities. In the air, Geno Smith will need to make key throws to open up space, while Matthew Stafford will need to find a rhythm with his receivers.
Given the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, the key to victory will lie in which team can best execute their game plan and impose their style of play. If Seattle can protect Geno Smith and establish Walker as a workhorse, they should be able to hold off the Rams. On the other hand, if the Rams’ front seven can disrupt Seattle’s rushing attack and Stafford can execute timely passes to Kupp and the receiving corps, the Rams will have a chance to seize control.
I predict a narrow victory for the Seattle Seahawks, driven by a strong performance from Kenneth Walker and the steady hand of Geno Smith. Expect the Seahawks to win 24-20, with the decisive factor being the ability of the Seahawks to win in the trenches and limit the Rams' offense on key third downs.
Final Thoughts
This game will answer a crucial question: Can Seattle’s offense control the tempo with Kenneth Walker, or will the Rams' defense and Kyren Williams’ versatility steal the show? The outcome of this clash will likely determine not only playoff positioning but also the confidence of both teams heading into the postseason. Both sides have something to prove, and this will be a game to remember.
