The new "maverick" defense

Is it for real? Is it here to stay? Or was it just because they played the Bucs and first-start QB Josh Johnson? Who knows, but I do think it's fair to say that the defense that showed up Sunday was undeniably better than the previous 3 weeks.

Yes, Tampa only managed 86 offensive yards the week before against NY but the Giants are no pee-wee defense. Tampa totaled 450 and 353 in the 2 weeks before that. No, they aren't Kurt Warner's Rams from 2000 but limiting them to 230 total yards (only 100 passing) is commendable.

Moreover, the defense fixed its 3rd down problem (2-13) and managed to put pressure on the QB. They forced 2 pivotal turnovers, registered 3 sacks and held Tampa scoreless in the red zone excluding the drive following Campbell's early INT. Those are the best numbers of the year for the Redskin defense.

What was the difference? I think Doughty starting over Horton, despite his impressive numbers, played only a small role. Rather, I think it was the noticeably more aggressive play. The DC front 7 finally got some penetration: 5 tackles for loss and 4 QB knockdowns. They also limited Tampa's running game- not including Johnson's scrambles, the Bucs were held to 88 rush yards (3.8 avg).

But my favorite change? Finally seeing D-backs in the backfield. Landry, Tryon and Rogers all made plays near and behind the line of scrimmage.

Most Impressive Player goes to Doughty for stepping in and stepping up: 11 total tackles and, more importantly, no mistakes. Props to Orakpo and Tryon for big games as well. But MVP goes to Fletch for the 3rd time in 4 weeks. He racked up 9 tackles, 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss and a QB knockdown. Did I mention he leads the NFL in tackles by 12? Should be no surprise considering he's the top tackler of the decade.