{
  "id": 9550565,
  "title": "Why do the Commanders continue to allow explosive plays?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/why-do-the-commanders-continue-to-allow-explosive-plays",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-24T12:03:36.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/why-commanders-continue-allow-explosive-120336262.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Washington Commanders' defense has consistently struggled against explosive plays in their first two games, allowing big gains and scoring opportunities. Head coach Dan Quinn faced questions about the cause of this recurring weakness. Quinn acknowledged that while the issue may stem from the defensive scheme, execution and communication are also key factors. He emphasized the importance of the right people being in the right positions, with adjustments made as necessary through effective communication. Quarterback Dak Prescott of the Dallas Cowboys exemplified the problem, completing 26 of 31 passes for 279 yards, four touchdowns, and zero interceptions, with CeeDee Lamb being the primary target. Lamb finished with 8 receptions for 153 yards and two touchdowns, dominating the Commanders' defense. The issue was particularly evident in the red zone, where the Commanders failed to contain tight end Jake Ferguson, who caught four passes for 43 yards and two touchdowns. Quinn stated that the team would address the problem by improving communication and adjusting schemes as needed, acknowledging that some adjustments will be made based on what works best for the players. The Commanders will face the Seattle Seahawks next in their upcoming game.",
  "summary": "It's early, but the Commanders' defense looks like last year's version in one key area: explosive plays. Why?",
  "key_points": [
    "Washington Commanders defense struggles against explosive plays in first two games.",
    "Head coach Dan Quinn acknowledges issue may stem from scheme, execution, communication.",
    "Quarterback Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb dominate Commanders defense, especially in red zone."
  ],
  "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."
}