Redskins vs. Buccaneers: 5 Keys to a Redskins Victory

Nov 2, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Washington Redskins defensive end Jason Hatcher (97) celebrates his sack with linebacker Ryan Kerrigan (91) during the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Get a Valiant Effort From the Defense

The Redskins’ defense is ranked seventh overall in yards allowed per game, but they’re only ranked 23rd in points allowed.

No matter how well the defense is playing, if they can’t prevent the opposing team from scoring, they won’t win games.

They played well during their two-game winning streak, giving up just 17 points to both the Tennessee Titans and Dallas Cowboys. But turned around and gave up 29 points to the Vikings, allowing a rookie quarterback to rip through their defense.

They’ll need to set a tone early Sunday, and prevent Tampa Bay from having any momentum offensively.