The Los Angeles Rams defense is set to face a formidable test Monday night against Atlanta Falcons rookie running back Bijan Robinson. Rams head coach Sean McVay emphasized just how dangerous Robinson can be, noting his versatility and elite skill set.
“Obviously, Bijan is so unique — very similar to Jahmyr Gibbs — and he can beat you in a variety of ways,” McVay said. “Every time he touches the football, he’s a scoring threat. He has exceptional feel, balance, contact ability, spatial awareness, and explosion. You name a trait that’s desirable for a running back, and he checks the box. And by the way, you can say the same for him as a receiver — he checks those boxes, too. He’s special, and I have a ton of respect for him.”
McVay also highlighted the Falcons’ front line and coaching staff as a key factor in Robinson’s production: “They do an outstanding job up front, with excellent coaching and coordination in both protection schemes and the run game. It’s an excellent challenge, but Bijan is as good as it gets, and we’ve got our hands full.”
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Rams YouTube Channel
Robinson’s Dual-Threat Impact
Through 16 games in 2025, Robinson has proven himself as one of the NFL’s most complete backs. He has carried the ball 250 times for 1,250 yards and 6 touchdowns, averaging 5.0 yards per carry. Out of the backfield as a receiver, he has hauled in 71 of 92 targets for 776 yards and 3 touchdowns, averaging 10.9 yards per reception. His total of 2,026 yards from scrimmage underscores his dual-threat capability.
Recent form has been impressive as well: over his last four games, Robinson has totaled 78 carries for 397 yards and 2 touchdowns, alongside 22 receptions for 233 yards and 1 touchdown. His 15 receptions for 174 yards in the past two games highlight the increasing role of his receiving ability in Atlanta’s offense.
Support Local and Independent Sports Writing – Subscribe To the LAFB Network Today!
Rams Defense vs. Running Backs
The Rams’ run defense has been inconsistent this season, allowing 1,586 rushing yards on 388 attempts (4.1 yards per carry) with 7 touchdowns. Against running backs in the passing game, they have conceded 67 receptions for 523 yards (7.8 yards per reception). Recent performances show a mixed picture: 132 rushing yards and 86 receiving yards allowed to RBs in Week 16 versus the Seahawks contrasted with a stout Week 14 showing, allowing only 29 rushing yards and 36 receiving yards to RBs against the Cardinals.
Why Robinson Could Exploit the Rams
Robinson’s skill set aligns with areas where the Rams have shown vulnerability. His 5.0 yards per carry average exceeds the 4.1 yards allowed per carry by Los Angeles. His 10.9 yards per reception and 4.8 yards after contact per carry suggest he could consistently gain ground both on the ground and through the air. The Rams have allowed running backs to record 7+ receptions in two of their last four games, further emphasizing the potential impact of Robinson in the passing game.
This Puka-Flex T-Shirt Is Illegal In Philly
Outlook for Monday Night
Expect Atlanta to leverage Robinson’s dual-threat abilities extensively, mixing carries with passes out of the backfield. The Rams will need disciplined gap integrity and active tackling in space to contain a running back McVay described as “as good as it gets.” Robinson’s combination of explosiveness, balance, and receiving prowess makes him one of the most difficult matchups the Rams will face this season.
The Rams will take on the Falcons on Monday Night Football on December 29th.