The Facts: HC Raheem Morris announced today that Johnson will replace Leftwich as the starting quarterback in Washington on Sunday. "He provides us more options," Morris said of Johnson. "We evaluated this morning, looked at the tape, and made the decision today. He gives you the dynamic that you all know about. He creates a better chance to break out of the pocket and make a play with his feet."
Diehards Line:Johnson, a fifth-round pick out of San Diego last season, got his first extended playing time in the NFL in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss to the New York Giants. Johnson took the Bucs on a 71-yard drive in his only possession before stalling on the New York 5. The Bucs had four first downs on that possession after getting one on their previous eight drives under Leftwich. By going with Johnson, the Bucs seem to be looking for a spark without sacrificing the future development of Josh Freeman, their prized first-round draft pick. Morris said Freeman will be the backup quarterback.