Redskins vs. Buccaneers: John Beck vs. Rex Grossman

Tonight's final exhibition game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers represents the decisive moment in the quarterback competition between John Beck and Rex Grossman.

Beck has been reasonably effective so far during preseason. His lack of experience has been reflected by his uneven play.

Beck has appeared confident and decisive at times, while at other times, panic has undermined his accuracy and decision-making.

Grossman's system knowledge has naturally contributed to him looking more comfortable executing the playbook. The former Chicago Bears starter has been very impressive at times, and on the whole, the offense seems to have better big-play potential with Grossman under center.

Unfortunately, Grossman's penchant for a sudden rash decision, resulting in a turnover, still remains.  No matter how proficient he is spreading the ball around, there is always the feeling with Grossman that an interception is inevitable at some point.

Given the anticipated improvements by both the running game and defense, efficiency could well be the most important requirement for the Redskins' starting quarterback this season. In the end, the choice may come down to whether or not Mike Shanahan feels his team is ready to compete for the postseason now. If so, then Grossman's experience could be the better way to go. If coaches still see the team as being firmly rooted in rebuilding mode, then they can afford to give Beck the chance to sink or swim.

Shanahan's decision to give his starters a lot of work tonight will provide a good indication about which of the two signal-callers has established the best rapport with the starting supporting cast. Conversely, Tampa's intention to rest their defensive starters makes the judgment process more difficult. It will be hard for coaches and fans to get too enthusiastic about either quarterback shredding a backup unit.

Kyle Shanahan has commented about how it is "neck-and-neck" between Beck and Grossman. But with the regular season opener a mere 10 days away, one of these unheralded passers must now distinguish himself.