Win or go home in Washington’s first playoff game since 2015. It is that simple. A win today by the Washington Football Team moves them forward, and they will most likely have to do win without quarterback Alex Smith. According to reports, there is a good chance that Taylor Heinicke will be Washington’s quarterback opposite Tom Brady.
Washington will feature running back Antonio Gibson, and wide receiver Terry McLaurin on offense as well as tight end Logan Thomas who is a former college quarterback. Head coach Ron Rivera admitted earlier in the week that it could be Heinicke taking snaps in this game as well as Smith, but expect Smith to be inactive based on reports.
“The Washington Football Team will have more answers in the morning, but there is a real chance QB Taylor Heinicke ends up starting vs the #Bucs, sources say. Alex Smith’s calf is still sore and hasn’t loosened up. Heinicke took the majority of snaps and is ready if needed.”
Ian Rapoport for NFL.com
This is a golden opportunity for Heinicke who becomes the fourth starter this season for Washington along with Smith, Dwayne Haskins and Kyle Allen who is on the injured list. Backing up Heinicke is Steven Montez, and he was previously on the practice squad and has not taken a snap in an NFL game this season.
With the many question marks about Washington’s offense, coach Rivera will be counting on his defense to make plays. At the front of the defense is a group led by rookie Chase Young and his teammates who plan to wreak havoc on Tom Brady.
“Tom Brady, Tom Brady, I’m coming! I want Tom! I want Tom.”
“I play ball,” Young told reporters. “I’m excited to go against the best. The media, their job is to stir it up. If you know me, I’m excited for every game. Tom Brady, you think I’m not excited to play against the GOAT? You tripping. I’m not going to apologize for saying I want Tom. No, I want every quarterback I play against.”
“Ask any edge rusher in the league who they want to sack and most might say, Tom Brady.”
— Chase Young
On the Vegas line, Tampa is favored by 10 points on the William Hill Sportsbook. Keep checking back as this line could change:
- Tampa vs. Washington spread: Washington +10 points
- Tampa vs. Washington over-under: 45 points
- Tampa vs. Washington money line: Washington -500; Eagles +400
Remember, if you live near the Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. or drive within a few blocks you can access the William Hill mobile app and bet the game.
This game is televised on NBC at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland at 8:20 pm ET.
