Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams (23) celebrates with Los Angeles Rams offensive line Warren McClendon Jr. (71) after a touchdown during the second quarter against the New York Giants at SoFi Stadium.
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
The Los Angeles Rams hosted the New York Giants at SoFi Stadium on “Monday Night Football,” looking to bounce back after bowing to the San Francisco Giants in London in Week 1.
The Rams had a perfect start, with Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams connecting for a nifty touchdown to close out the first quarter. It did not take long for the Rams to find the end zone again, with Stafford finding Kyren Williams for a 10-yard score.
Williams, however, also lost a fumble in the second quarter after getting stripped by Jevon Holland.
It was Williams' eighth career fumble, tying Rhamondre Stevenson of the New England Patriots for the most fumbles by a running back since 2023.
Williams took a handoff from Stafford before Holland knocked the ball loose with a punchout. After the physical scrum, the referees reviewed the pile and determined that Holland completed the recovery. The turnover gave the Giants real estate, setting up their offense at the Rams' 11-yard line.
The 26-year-old Williams had a productive outing against the 49ers in Week 1, tallying 11 carries for 41 yards and a touchdown. He also had three receptions for 24 yards.
Last year, the one-time All-Pro signed a three-year, $33 million contract extension with the Rams. Los Angeles drafted him in the fifth round in 2022.
Williams has been a key cog for the Rams with his red zone efficiency, three-down versatility, and high motor. He utilizes his pint-sized frame to win leverage battles and squeeze through tight gaps.
As of this writing, Los Angeles is ahead of New York, 14-3, in the third quarter.