We’ve identified the weed that’s been taking over our yard as buckhorn plantain (Plantago lanceolata). Unfortunately:
These perennial plants are well adapted to irrigated areas where frequent mowing or grazing is practiced. This includes lawns, pastures, and alfalfa fields. Buckhorn plantain will tolerate drought when it is well established. …
Plantains can be a major weed problem for turfgrass or ornamental managers. …
No single procedure has been successful in controlling plantain in turfgrass. Early removal of new seedlings has been successful when practiced diligently. Digging out perennial plantain plants must be done regularly for several years to be successful.
More at Wikipedia: Plantago lanceolata:
known by the common names ribwort plantain, English plantain, buckhorn plantain, and narrowleaf plantain. It is a common weed of cultivated land.
Its USDA PLANTS Profile indicates it’s pretty much everywhere in the US and most of Canada.