Rams HC Sean McVay on questionable decision to go for TD late against Browns: 'Kyren's on my fantasy team'
Los Angeles Rams (6-6) head coach Sean McVay was in a joking mood following his team’s 36-19 victory over the Cleveland Browns (7-5) Sunday.
With the Rams holding a 27-19 lead with under two minutes remaining in the game and in the red zone, Los Angeles had the opportunity to take a couple kneel downs and kick a field goal to salt the game away for good. McVay had other ideas, letting running back Kyren Williams get a few more runs in. Williams would score with 1:56 to go, extending the Rams’ lead.
After the game, McVay addressed his aggressive handling of his team’s final drive. Turns out, McVay had Williams on his fantasy team and needed some more points.
“It was some debate,” McVay said, via KTLA 5. “But I think out of respect for their field goal block operation, we said, hey, let’s make sure we have great ball security, but if we can punch it in… Kyren’s on my fantasy team.
“It’s a joke, it’s a joke. I don’t really mean that. I’m kidding!”
Now of course, McVay wasn’t serious.
Sean McVay’s Rams continue hot streak
But for those who had Williams in their fantasy lineups, they certainly appreciate McVay’s approach. Williams finished with 81 yards on 22 carries and the score. He added three receptions for 24 yards. In fact, in the eight games he has taken part in this season, Williams has finished as a top-10 back in fantasy six times.
Williams wasn’t the only Ram to have a big day, as quarterback Matthew Stafford continued his stellar play this season. He completed 22-of-37 passes for 279 yards and three touchdowns. Rookie wideout Puka Nacua made history, breaking Eddie Kennison‘s franchise rookie record for single-season receiving yards. The fifth-round pick out of BYU hauled in four receptions for 105 yards and a score. He’s up to 1,029 yards this season.
“Nothing surprises me with him anymore,” McVay said. “Congratulations to him as well, setting a rookie franchise record for receiving [yards]. He’s done a great job, and the best thing about him is he’s going to just continue to get better, continue to be coachable and accountable and only going to take steps in this type of direction. And we love him.”