What to do with Cam Akers, Malcolm Brown in the Wild Card round of the 2021 NFL playoffs

Heading into a must-win regular season finale, there was some question as to whether or not the Los Angeles Rams would have running back Cam Akers, who was dealing with a high-ankle sprain. Not only did he suit up, he had 25 touches for 86 total yards to help push the Rams into the playoffs. With a Wild Card game against the Seahawks on tap for Saturday, can Akers or his teammate, Malcolm Brown, be a viable fantasy option for you?

Fantasy Football analysis: Rams RBs Cam Akers ($5,100), Malcolm Brown ($4,100)

Akers carried the ball 21 times for just 34 yards against the Cardinals, but the fact that the Rams leaned on him to that extent, despite his recent injury, is a sign of how they plan to ride him again this week, especially if John Wolford is under center again. It also tells you all you need to know about Brown’s fantasy value—he had three rushing attempts and one catch last week—which is nil.

The Seahawks defense is inviting to opposing passers, but teams are still having some success running the ball against them. In fact, the Rams’ backfield combo had 188 rushing yards and 31 receiving yards against them in two meetings this season. In their Week 10 matchup, the Rams scored three times on the ground.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

In traditional formats, Akers is a passable RB2 this week. He’s the fifth most expensive running back for Saturday’s games in DraftKings, and all five guys ahead of him are definitely better options. But among the cheaper running backs, he’s a decent play.