All throughout training camp, Sean McVay indicated the Rams would use a true committee approach at running back, getting all three of their players involved on offense. For the most part, he kept his word in the season opener against the Cowboys. Malcolm Brown had 18 carries, Cam Akers had 14 and Darrell Henderson Jr. received three.
Brown was the most reliable and productive of the bunch, rushing for a career-high 79 yards and two touchdowns despite technically being the backup to Akers, who opened the game as the starter.
McVay had some interesting comments after the game about the running back situation, saying Brown played more than he expected him to and that he planned to get Akers more work on early downs. Does that mean Akers could be the lead back on Sunday against the Eagles, making him the better fantasy play?
That’s a tough question to answer because it’ll likely be a similar approach to last week, meaning it’ll come down to whichever player has the hot hand. Akers was the starter in Week 1, but he only gained 39 yards on 14 carries, while Brown averaged a healthy 4.4 yards per carry.
That shifted the touches away from Akers and more toward Brown’s direction, which was understandable given the way each player was running the ball. Assuming the Rams take a similar approach in Week 2, Akers has to produce in order to earn touches.
What’s working against Akers is Brown’s opportunities in the red zone and as a closer when the Rams get a lead in the fourth quarter. Akers’ last carry came with 8:18 left in the fourth quarter, which were his only two attempts in the final 15 minutes. Brown, meanwhile, had six touches in the fourth quarter, as well as another one that was negated due to penalty; a clear indication of Brown being the Rams’ preferred player down the stretch.
When it comes to fantasy choices, Brown is the safer option. He’s a good bet to at least get opportunities in the red zone, which are immensely valuable in fantasy. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Akers gets more carries this time around, but if he doesn’t turn them into productive yards, Brown will have his number called again.
If forced to choose, I’d ride with Brown again against the Eagles as a safer option with Akers presenting more upside because of his big-play ability compared to Brown’s hard-nosed running.