1. Return to the ground » The Redskins do not, and should not, just focus on the run. Tampa Bay has allowed five touchdown passes of at least 30 yards this season. But they would be helped by running more out of the I-formation, which sets up their play-action better. It’s the formula they used at the start of the second half vs. Detroit and it worked. More of that, please. The line and the backs love running out of this set.

2. Corral Johnson » Tampa is starting a second-year quarterback, and former fifth-round pick, in Josh Johnson. The one way he can hurt Washington is with his legs. If the Redskins blitz, and they should, they’d better get there and arrive before Johnson can set up. Johnson does not have a great arm, and though he’s considered a smart player, don’t forget: he started training camp as the No. 4 quarterback. He’s not the future of the Bucs.

3. Play with energy » This has nothing to do with strategy and should occur every week. But there doesn’t seem to be a lot of enthusiasm during the game from the players. A few big hits and big plays would surely help. An aggressive game plan defensively would as well. That means overloading sides with blitzes — the Bucs are also vulnerable up the middle. Remember that. Regardless, show more passion on the field.

Key matchups


Santana Moss • Redskins • WR » Coming off a huge game in which he was open for more. Expect heavy double teams.

vs.
Aqib Talib • Bucs • CB » He’s mostly covered the opposition’s best receiver. He’s at his best on downfield throws.

Brian Orakpo • Redskins • LB » He won’t be the only one responsible for Winslow. Luckily for him, Winslow can’t block.

vs.
Kellen Winslow • Bucs • TE » He leads the Bucs in catches (15), yards (134) and TDs (two). He’ll help a young quarterback.

Cornelius Griffin • Redskins • DT » Off to a good start, though he did not have his best game last week in Detroit.

vs.
Davin Joseph • Bucs • RG » A Pro Bowler in 2008; has good strength and quickness. He gets to the linebackers often.

State of the teams


BUCCANEERS » Tampa Bay is a bad team and is starting a new quarterback. The Bucs can’t be in a good place mentally at this point. The new defensive system isn’t working, either. They’re headed toward a long year.

REDSKINS » The Redskins seemed to be rejuvenated when they returned to practice this week after the loss to lowly Detroit. But there’s no doubt they’re mystified by their start. Another loss to a bad team would shatter their confidence.

Examiner predicts


The Redskins can’t lose to another bad team, right? Not at home, right? They’re simply better than Tampa at most positions, except for offensive line, and should win. Of course, we thought the same thing last week.

Redskins 17, Buccaneers 10


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