Redskins vs. Buccaneers: 5 players to watch in Week 10

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LANDOVER, MD – NOVEMBER 04: Tight end Austin Hooper #81 of the Atlanta Falcons is tackled by free safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix #20 of the Washington Redskins in the second quarter at FedExField on November 4, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /

No. 1 – FS Ha Ha Clinton-Dix

The 2019 fourth-round pick given up to acquire Ha Ha Clinton-Dix from the Green Bay Packers will never seem like a steep price, but the former Pro Bowl safety was brought to D.C. to make plays in the secondary. As he grows more acclimated with the scheme, he will be expected to meet those expectations, in some capacity.

Against the Buccaneers, Clinton-Dix will have early and ample opportunity to do so. Tampa Bay’s passing offense is No. 1 in the league, from a yardage standpoint, boasting a receiving core that mirrors Washington’s as one of the best in the NFL.

Mike Evans, DeSean Jackson, and Chris Godwin make for an impressive, versatile tandem. Factor in Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard at the tight end position, and you have an offense fully stocked with playmaking talents, all beautifully tied together by upstart offensive coordinator Todd Monken.

Next. Redskins vs. Buccaneers Week 10 preview. dark

Of course, there is one flaw with Tampa Bay’s passing offense: Their quarterback. Ryan Fitzpatrick is fearless, and at his best, his play is tantamount to magic. But Fitzpatrick’s recklessness can create opportunities for the defense, and that is where Clinton-Dix, the center fielder, must capitalize on Sunday. He will be the last line of defense for Josh Norman and Quinton Dunbar, and if the Buccaneers’ receivers live up to their billing, he will be needed.

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