Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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Carolina Panthers

Carolina Panthers vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Game Preview, Stats & Players to Watch

A pivotal NFC South showdown unfolds as Carolina Panthers host Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, a key late-season clash shaping the division race.

Game Details

• Date: 2025-12-21
• Kick-off: 1 p.m. (ET)
• Venue: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina
• Broadcast: FOX, Fox Sports App, Fubo Sports, NFL+, RDS 2

Recent Form & Key Storylines

The Panthers enter after a narrow 20–17 loss to the Saints, dropping to 7–7 and sharing the NFC South lead . Tampa Bay also sits at 7–7 following a tight defeat to the Falcons and a critical division setback . With two matchups remaining between them, the division title hinges on these final games. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield has battled a sprained shoulder, raising questions about his availability or effectiveness .

Summary Stats

• Carolina Panthers last 5: L-W-L-W-L
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers last 5: L-L-W-L-L
• Last head-to-head: In their most recent meeting, Tampa Bay defeated Carolina 48–14

Players to Watch

Panthers quarterback Bryce Young continues to anchor the offense with poise. On the Buccaneers side, Baker Mayfield remains central to their push, his operation affected by injury. Watch for how each offense adjusts under playoff-like pressure from NFC South foes.