One of the worst case scenarios in Week 17 will haunt Rams as playoffs arrive

The Los Angeles Rams had to believe that staying healthy over the final two games of the season was their top priority. Unfortunately, that is not how things have turned out. After sitting wide receiver Davante Adams (hamstring) and left tackle Alaric Jackson (knee), the team needed to stay healthy.

But as is often the case, sitting starters shifts the injury risk to others who continue to play.

Backup running back Blake Corum was injured (ankle) in the second quarter and limped off the field. Safety Jaylen McCollough (hip) also suffered an injury. Both players are questionable to return. That is the last thing that fans and the coaching staff hoped to encounter in this one.

Los Angeles knew entering Week 17 that its fate as either a fifth or sixth seed would not be impacted regardless of the outcome. But fans also realized that this game is a turning point. This is a team that needs to show some resolve, no matter who steps onto the football field. And as halftime arrived, the scoreboard showed little reason to be optimistic.

LA fell behind by a score of 21-0. Two players were shaken up. And the entire team was shaky.

Fourth quarter

Los Angeles Rams 24
Atlanta Falcons 24

Blake Corum's injury puts pressure on Kyren Williams

LA had not rushed well in the first half of this one. In fact, nothing was going well for the team in this one. The defense was susceptible to the run. The offense was too dependent on the pass. And two interceptions of Matthew Stafford led to two Falcons scores, one with a pick-six and the second leading to a Bijon Robinson 93-yard touchdown run.

Without Corum, Williams will pick up almost every offensive snap. That's a hard row to hoe, as he will be vital in picking up defenders on passing plays. Williams has shown some life in the second-half, gaining 53 yards on 10 carries.

The offense is behind by seven points with time running out. So the rushing offense is a bit off the table. But that also eliminates subbing in running back Ronnie Rivers, as he is not nearly as effective at blocking as either Williams or Corum.

There is still enough time on the clock to pull out a victory. But there is a complete lack of consistency in this game. LA would love to win this one. Fans would love to celebrate a victory. Still, down by seven points, this is an uphill battle. And with players falling to injury, and with too many backups starting, this game is a tough win.

As always, thanks for reading.