A 'real possibility' Taylor Heinicke starts vs. Bucs?

Taylor Heinicke might get the biggest start of his career on Saturday night versus the Bucs. Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Report: A 'real possibility' Taylor Heinicke starts against Buccaneers

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 1/9/21

Saturday night's matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Football Team could turn into a true David versus Goliath showdown.

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, "there is a real possibility" Washington backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke starts against the Buccaneers.

From @NFLGameDay: WFT QB Alex Smith will be evaluated this morning, but it's trending the wrong way for his calf. There is a real possibility it's Taylor Heinicke v. Tom Brady tonight. A legit David v. Goliath situation. pic.twitter.com/JkflTtye2P
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 9, 2021

J.P. Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reported Friday that Alex Smith's calf injury hasn't responded, leaving his game status in question.

Smith is 5-1 as Washington's starter this season after returning from a life-threatening leg injury. During the team's season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles, the veteran quarterback appeared to be more limited than usual.

Heinicke took a majority of first-team practice reps this week while Smith rested his calf. The 27-year-old replaced Dwayne Haskins during Week 16 against the Carolina Panthers, completing 12 of 19 passes for 137 yards and one touchdown while also rushing for 22 yards in a 20-13 loss.

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