Commanders' rookie continues to shine with standout performance, which makes offseason decisions even tougher

The Washington Commanders' loss to the Dallas Cowboys wasn't all doom and gloom after many players had performances worth noting.

The defense couldn't get off the field on fourth downs, but when the offense did have its opportunities, it made the most of them. The Commanders had to start third-string quarterback Josh Johnson, so getting a run game established was critical. Chris Rodriguez Jr. was a late scratch just an hour before the game with an illness, and Bill Croskey-Merritt had to step up.

He's had some major moments this season, and ending the year on a high note is exactly what this team needed, and he delivered.

Bill Croskey-Merritt had a standout game as the RB1 against the Cowboys

Despite the struggles this season, the Commanders have still been able to run the ball at a high level as one of the best rushing attacks in the league. It hasn't been a one-man show, though, as they've rotated a running back committee ever since Austin Ekeler was lost for the season in Week 2. Rodriguez Jr. and Croskey-Merritt have taken turns all season with getting the majority of the carries, even when the team is playing from behind because of the defense.

Croskey-Merritt had his number called on Thursday against the Cowboys after Rodriguez Jr. was ruled out with an illness, and he made the most of it. He finished with 11 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns to go with it. This is the first 100-yard rusher in a game since Croskey-Merritt did it in Week 5 against the Los Angeles Chargers. His second touchdown came on a 72-yard house call, which was also the longest rush of the season.