{
  "id": 11878475,
  "title": "Don't blame Commanders' running backs for run game issues",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/04/dont-blame-commanders-running-backs-for-run-game-issues",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-04T08:01:58.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/dont-blame-commanders-running-backs-080158938.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Washington Commanders' offense has shown promise under new coordinator David Blough, with the team starting poorly and improving over three games. Jayden Daniels' injury and dislocation early in the season hampered Washington's run game, but Mariota stepped up against Dallas and the Seattle Seahawks. Despite the Commanders' decent rushing offense ranking (8th in the NFL averaging 132 yards per game), their yards per attempt (4.1) and rushing yards per game (132) are relatively low. The issue lies with their running backs, who are averaging only 3.6 yards per attempt. Washington's offensive line allows penetration to opposing defenses, ranking third-highest in the NFL at 53%. Mariota's rushing ability is limited compared to Daniels, but he could return in Week 5, potentially improving the running game. Meanwhile, the Commanders face the Indianapolis Colts, who have a poor run defense (29th in the NFL allowing over 141 yards per game).",
  "summary": "The Commanders have struggled to run the ball consistently outside of Jayden Daniels. Don't blame the running backs.",
  "key_points": [
    "Washington Commanders' run game issues blamed on running backs, not coordinator.",
    "Running backs average 3.6 yards per attempt, below league average.",
    "Offensive line ranks third-highest in NFL for allowing penetration at 53%."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}