Expert prediction
NFL Week 18: Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Carolina Panthers Odds, and Picks (Jan 7)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Buccaneers lost 23-13 to the Saints in week 17.
- The Panthers were shut out in a 0-26 defeat to the Jaguars last time out.
- These teams last met in week 13, with the Buccaneers winning 18-21.
The 8-8 Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on the 2-14 Carolina Panthers in this week 18, NFC South divisional matchup. The Buccaneers need a win to secure their place in the playoffs after a disappointing defeat against the Saints last weekend.
How To Watch
- FOX
Game Preview
The Buccaneers will be at full strength when they take on Carolina on Sunday, knowing that only a win will do if they want to secure playoff football. After a disappointing performance against the Saints last week, losing 23-13, Tampa Bay is fortunate to still have their fate in their own hands. RB Rachaad White could be the key to their success here, the Panthers have been terrible at defending against the running game all season and the 24-year-old has been in impressive form. White has racked up 915 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns from 253 attempts, as well as 3 touchdowns and 531 receiving yards from 60 receptions. With WR Mike Evans posting another 1000+ yard season, and QB Baker Mayfield putting up the best numbers of his career, Tampa Bay will be desperate to extend their season here.
The Panthers have nothing but pride left to play for in their final game of the season, and there has not been too much of that on offer for Carolina fans so far this season. Rookie QB Bryce Young has had a debut season to forget, but much of that disappointment can be put down to the lack of options at the 22-year-old’s disposal. Indianapolis and Houston have proven that a quick rebuild is possible, so if Carolina recruits well in the off season we could see a bounce back next year and an uptick in numbers for the highly rated Young.
Prediction
I can’t see anything other than a Tampa Bay win in this matchup. The Panthers have claimed a couple of surprise wins this season but the Buccaneers should be too good for them.
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