{
  "id": 7888840,
  "title": "Commanders are hoping Jacory Croskey-Merritt can run all over the Cowboys",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/16/commanders-are-hoping-jacory-croskey-merritt-can-run-all-over-the",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-16T22:25:54.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Winnipeg Free Press",
    "slug": "winnipeg-free-press",
    "url": "https://www.winnipegfreepress.com/sports/football/nfl/2026/09/16/commanders-are-hoping-jacory-croskey-merritt-can-run-all-over-the-cowboys"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In Ashburn, Virginia, the Washington Commanders hope that second-year running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt can have a breakout season. During his first game of the season, Croskey-Merritt showcased his potential by rushing for 63 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries. This performance came in new offensive coordinator David Blough's zone-run based system. The Commanders will face the Dallas Cowboys, a team with a strong defense that allowed only 165 rushing yards against the New York Giants. The Commanders believe Croskey-Merritt’s ability to cut upfield and evade defenders will be key to their success against Dallas. Right guard Sam Cosmi emphasized the importance of controlling the line of scrimmage to prevent the opposing team’s run game from gaining traction. The Commanders have been using Croskey-Merritt in the lead back role, with veteran Rachaad White catching passes and rookie Kaytron Allen providing a change of pace in short yardage situations. Despite some issues with ball security, the team remains optimistic about Croskey-Merritt’s potential and his ability to adapt to the zone-run scheme.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "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."
}