Don't blame Commanders' running backs for run game issues

The Washington Commanders ' offense under new coordinator David Blough has shown glimpses of greatness through three games this season. The season started frustratingly, as Washington failed to get anything going until the fourth quarter in a Week 1 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles .

In Week 2, the Commanders were back on the road at Dallas, and quarterback Jayden Daniels looked as electric as he did in 2024, putting Washington on the doorstep of a tie before dislocating his elbow at the end of the first half.

Marcus Mariota replaced Daniels and played well against Dallas. He appeared to throw a touchdown pass to Dyami Brown in the third quarter, but the officials ruled it incomplete. No one could believe it. From there, Washington's defense couldn't keep up with the Cowboys.

Last week, Mariota started against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. He was outstanding, completing 19 of 31 passes for 183 yards and three touchdowns. He took care of the football, watched as Washington's defense forced turnovers, and used his legs to seal the game in the fourth quarter. While the Commanders didn't put up huge numbers, they mostly did what they wanted through the air against Seattle's top-ranked defense.

Washington's offense has had its issues. Injuries have hurt them, including to Daniels, right guard Sam Cosmi, and left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Last week against Seattle, the Commanders featured a reshuffled offensive line, with recently signed Lucas Patrick at center. Those injuries have contributed to Washington's inability to run the ball. Amazingly, the Commanders are No. 8 in the NFL in rushing offense, averaging 132 yards per game. They are No. 17 in yards per attempt at 4.1.

However, those numbers are deceiving. Quarterback Jayden Daniels has 100 rushing yards and averages eight yards per attempt in his two games. Washington's three running backs who have played, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rachaad White, and Kaytron Allen, are averaging a combined 3.6 yards per attempt.

It's not quite fair to blame Washington's running backs, though.

According to Warren Sharp of Sharp Analysis , the Commanders' running backs have been hit at or behind the line of scrimmage on 53% of their runs — the third-highest total in the NFL. Interestingly, Sunday's Week 4 opponent, the Indianapolis Colts, rank second-highest.

That number tells you Washington's offensive line is allowing far too much penetration to opposing defenses. While Mariota can still run, he's much less dynamic than Daniels. Many believe Daniels will return in Week 5 against the New York Giants , which should help the running game.

In the meantime, perhaps the Commanders' running game can get going against the Colts in Week 4. Indianapolis ranks No. 29 in run defense, allowing over 141 yards per game.