Redskins: 3 standout performers from Week 10 victory over Buccaneers

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LANDOVER, MD – OCTOBER 21: Quarterback Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys is tackled by linebacker Ryan Anderson #52 of the Washington Redskins in the fourth quarter at FedExField on October 21, 2018 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /

Ryan Anderson didn’t do a lot in this contest, but he made one key play that was absolutely critical to the Redskins notching a victory.

With 11 minutes left in the game, the Buccaneers were driving on the Redskins while down 16-3. Ryan Fitzpatrick completed a pass to Jacquizz Rodgers, and the receiving back was able to break a tackle and inch towards a first down inside the 20. That’s when Anderson struck.

Anderson snuck up on Rodgers from behind and with a mighty blow, punched the ball out from the ball carrier’s hands. The ball rocketed into the air for 20 yards before falling in the end zone. At that point, the Redskins defenders were en route to surrounding the ball. Ha Ha Clinton-Dix was able to pounce on the ball easily with minimal competition from the Buccaneers players, as they were all clustered near the middle of the field.

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This play demonstrated the raw strength that Anderson has. That’s where much of his skill set derives from, and that’s why he figures to be a good strength-based edge rusher and run defender. If he can use his heavy hands to move offensive linemen and punch the ball out when he gets the opportunity, that could do a great deal to make him an effective rotational player for the Redskins.

In keeping with the theme of the day, Anderson was part of the team’s big-time playmaking defense. He was one of the young playmakers that were able to succeed and really keep the ‘Skins in the game while their offense struggled. If the defense keeps playing well — and guys like Anderson are able to find the roles that fit them well — Washington will really have a chance to establish themselves as one of the top defenses in the league. Of course, they will also need to find consistency for that to happen, but that’s another story.

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