Cardinals running backs show that they have depth too
Dec 6, 2015, 3:12 PM | Updated: Dec 7, 2015, 9:31 am
Arizona Cardinals running back Kerwynn Williams (33) runs past St. Louis Rams defenders Marcus Roberson, left, and Rodney McLeod on his way to a 35-yard touchdown run during the third quarter of an NFL football game on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2015, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/L.G. Patterson)
(AP Photo/L.G. Patterson)
The Arizona Cardinals receiving corps has stepped up big throughout the season. Whether it’s the two potential Pro Bowlers, the big play threat, or the two guys lower on the depth chart, all five have had key moments in the season and have been the best unit for the Cardinals this season.
In the Cardinals’ 27-3 win over the St. Louis Rams, however, the running backs wanted to show their depth as well. Without both Chris Johnson and Andre Ellington, the Cardinals still ran the ball effectively for 175 yards.
Rookie David Johnson provided his usual spark and some great pass protection in the first quarter. Johnson finished the game with 22 carries for 99 yards and also reeled in a 10-yard touchdown catch.
Kerwynn Williams, who had spent every week except Week 2 on the practice squad, made two huge plays in the third quarter. His 15-yard run brought the Cardinals into the red zone to set up the touchdown pass to Johnson that gave the Cardinals a 14-point lead.
On the next drive Williams ran for a 35-yard touchdown to give the Cardinals complete control of the game and a 24-3 lead.
Williams had only six carries on the day, but clearly made them count, amounting to 59 yards on the ground and that key touchdown.
The Cardinals were searching for a breakthrough moment in the second half and their one-two punch at running back provided just that, despite it not involving either Chris Johnson or Ellington.
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