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Washington (5-3) at Tampa Bay (5-3), Sunday 4:15 pm EST

TAMPA, Florida (Ticker) -- One of the NFL's early season surprises, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are struggling heading into Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins.

Led by rookie running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams and their defense, the Buccaneers won five of their first six games. But since quarterback Brian Griese suffered a season-ending knee injury, things have taken a drastic turn.

Chris Simms has lost both of his starts, turning the ball over three times in each contest.

Simms threw two interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown, and lost a fumble in last week's 34-14 loss to Carolina. The loss dropped the Bucs one game behind Carolina and Atlanta in the NFC South.

However, Simms is not the only member of the offense not getting the job done. After rushing for a rookie-record 434 yards in his first three games, Williams has produced just 62 yards on 35 attempts in his last three contests.

In Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs' second season since returning to the sidelines, the Redskins are tied for second place in the NFC East, one game behind the New York Giants.

Ironically, Gibbs' first game out of retirement came against the Bucs in last season's opener. Clinton Portis rushed for 148 yards, including a 64-yad touchdown on his first carry, to lead the Redskins to a 16-10 victory.

Mark Brunell completed 21-of-29 passes for 224 yards and Portis rushed for 67 yards and a TD as the Redskins posted a 17-10 victory over Philadelphia last week.

Gibbs will be looking for improved play on the road, where the Redskins are just 1-3.

Matchup to watch: Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss, who has 49 catches for 856 yards and five touchdowns, against left cornerback Brian Kelly.

Series: Washington leads, 7-5.

Next week: Washington hosts Oakland, November 20 Tampa Bay visits Atlanta, November 20