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Redskins-Buccaneers: Just The Touchdowns

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On Thursday night, the Washington Redskins closed out their first perfect preseason slate in 28 years, beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 30-12.

The action was much more one-sided than the scoreboard would suggest, as the Redskins led 27-6 at one point and the defense held the Bucs to just a pair of field goals total.

Redskins touchdowns were scored by three players looking for standout performances, with Chris Thompson scoring the first touchdown on special teams this preseason.

For a full recap, let's take a look back at the action as it happened.


No. 1: Evan Royster Turns Up Running Back Competition

The Redskins depth chart is likely set, as Alfred Morris retains his starting position and Roy Helu Jr. gets the nod at backup. But head coach Mike Shanahan has always had room for talented contributors in the running game.

Evan Royster is a different kind of back from the other two. He doesn't have Morris' power and technique, and he doesn't have Helu Jr.'s cut and slash speed. But Royster does have a certain shiftiness that allows him to run laterally at full speed in search of a hole.

Last night, Royster played only into the second quarter, but led the team in rushing with 59 yards on 11 carries, including a 36-yard rip.

Royster closed out that drive with a patient one-yard plunge off tackle and into the end zone:

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No. 2: Chris Thompson To The House

The Redskins came out firing in the first quarter, with Pat White hooking up with receiver Dezmon Briscoe for 66 yards, the longest play so far of the preseason.

Not to be outdone, rookie running back Chris Thompson put himself at the top of the depth chart at punt returner last night, taking it 69 yards to the house.

This was a major game for Thompson, who was in danger of being left off the roster after two preseason fumbles. However, the team needed a playmaker at returner and has found their man:

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No. 3: White For The Win

It's still hard to believe that Pat White's NFL line before 2013 (combining preseason and regular season action) was 10-for-25 for 58 yards and an interception. He is barely recognizable in burgundy and gold.

Last night alone, White passed 13-for-22 for 181 yards, giving him a final preseason stat line of 28-for-50 for 330 yards, a pair of interceptions and a pair of rushing touchdowns.

The second of those rushing scores happened in last night's contest, as White found no one open and improvised his way to paydirt:

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