3 impact players for the Buccaneers vs. Washington
By Rob Leeds
Essentially, the second-most important player for the Buccaneers today is whoever lines up across from pass-rusher Chase Young. Young has lined up on the right and the left side of the defensive line, so it’s safe to assume he will see action against both.
If Washington was smart, the Football Team would line Young up across from Smith for most of the day. Wirfs has only surrendered one sack on the year and far fewer pressures than his counterpart, so Washington would maximize Young’s potential against Smith.
While Smith has already caught plenty of flak from Bucs fans over the past few years, this game would go a long way in changing the narrative about his future in Tampa. Most people expect the Bucs to cut him during the offseason due to his mediocre level of play. Still, a successful run during the playoffs could create a cause for additional evaluation.
Smith has given up six sacks on the season and eleven penalties. These errors against a player like Chase Young could spell disaster for the Buccaneer offense.
The good news for Tom Brady is that Smith’s pass-blocking has improved this season. Sure, it may not be as fast as fans want, but this year has been better than 2019 other than a rough start.
Donovan Smith still has experience and the greatest quarterback of all time on his side, but this game could get ugly very fast if Smith can’t handle Chase Young.