Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers – As Week 17 of the NFL regular season commences, two matches stand out due to their vastly differing fortunes: Tampa Bay Buccaneers versus Carolina Panthers will face-off Sunday at Bank of America Stadium and promise an important battleground – especially among those interested in Super Bowl picks today – given both teams are desperate to clinch playoff berths or end a disappointing campaign with victory! So there couldn’t be higher stakes!
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers
Date & Time: Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET
Location: Bank of America Stadium
TV: FOX
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Buccaneers | -225 | -4.5 (-108) | 37.5 over (-115) |
| Panthers | +195 | +4.5 (-112) | 37.5 under (-105) |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Analysis
Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter this game boasting an efficient offensive lineup led by quarterback Baker Mayfield‘s impressive season totals: 3,907 passing yards and 64.4% completion rate. Mike Evans has been one of Mayfield’s primary targets this year, accruing 1,233 yards and 13 touchdowns with Mayfield as his quarterback. Meanwhile, Rachaad White’s 915 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns offer crucial dimension to their attack; keeping opposing defenses guessing while giving Tampa Bay control of game tempo – something Carolina may struggle with due to their defensive unit’s strengths on both ends of their attack arsenals.
Tampa Bay’s defense has shown some inconsistency but remains formidable. They must tighten up their pass defense, which has occasionally let them down, while their performance against the run has been more consistent – this could prove pivotal against an offensively struggling Panthers side. By maintaining discipline and applying pressure, the Buccaneers should be able to dictate the pace of play.
Carolina Panthers Analysis
The Carolina Panthers offense has had difficulty throughout this season due to an inconsistent passing game led by Bryce Young (59.7% completion rate and 2,783 passing yards). While showing promise at times, Young has struggled. The Panthers require more from their aerial attack to keep defenses at bay and open up their running game. Chuba Hubbard, their primary running back, has been one of their bright spots with 819 rushing yards to his name. Carolina must combine Adam Thielen’s performance with an exciting passing game to really pose any threat against Tampa Bay’s defense. Thielen has proven reliable with 1,008 receiving yards so far but the Panthers will need more explosive plays from their receiving corps to do battle with them.
On defense, Carolina has struggled throughout much of this season. Their ability to contain run plays is a primary concern and must step up significantly against Tampa Bay’s balanced attack. Pass defense will face an even tougher test in Mayfield and Evans. To give themselves a fighting chance against them in this matchup, Carolina needs improvements at both ends of their defensive line and secondary.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers Against the Spread
The Buccaneers have covered the spread in 7 of their last 10 games. They are 5-2 against the spread (ATS) in their last 7 meetings with the Panthers. The total has gone over in 4 of the Buccaneers’ last 6 games.
The Panthers have gone under the total in 8 of their last 10 games. They are just 1-8 straight up in their last 9 games overall. However, the total has gone over in 6 of the Panthers’ last 8 home games against Tampa Bay.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers Free Pick
Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-225). The Buccaneers’ superior form and head-to-head record make them the safer bet.
Spread: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -4.5 (-108). Given the Buccaneers’ strong ATS record and the Panthers’ struggles, Tampa Bay is likely to cover the spread.
Total: Under 37.5 (-105). Considering Carolina’s offensive woes and both teams’ recent UNDER trends, a lower-scoring game is anticipated.
Predicted Score: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23, Carolina Panthers 12
The most reliable pick in this matchup appears to be the Buccaneers covering the spread. Their balanced offense and relatively stronger defense give them the edge over a Panthers team that has struggled throughout the season. For bettors looking for the Best Sportsbook in Canada, this game provides a good opportunity to capitalize on Tampa Bay’s recent form and Carolina’s challenges.
