The Tampa Bay Buccaneers enter Sunday’s matchup against the Carolina Panthers with urgency after a crushing defeat last week. Tampa Bay blew a 14-point fourth-quarter lead and fell 29-28 to the Atlanta Falcons, a loss that left head coach Todd Bowles visibly frustrated. His profanity-laced postgame remarks underscored the team’s lack of focus and accountability. Now, with both teams sitting at 7-7, the showdown in Charlotte will determine who takes control of the NFC South heading into the final stretch.
Star wide receiver Mike Evans and Bowles have been vocal in reminding the locker room that the Buccaneers are better than their recent play suggests. Evans emphasized leadership and execution, while Bowles demanded accountability from every level of the roster. “We understood the message after the ball game,” Bowles said. “Everybody is hard at work and trying to do the right things to win.”
Quarterback Baker Mayfield echoed the sentiment, calling out teammates for missed opportunities while taking responsibility for the offense’s struggles. All-Pro tackle Tristan Wirfs added that players should “stew” over the Atlanta loss during the mini-bye, using it as motivation to correct mistakes.
Division Title Still Within Reach
Despite losing five of their last six and six of eight overall, the Buccaneers still control their destiny. A win Sunday would put them back atop the NFC South, and two victories in their final three games would secure a fifth straight division title. Even if they split their two meetings with Carolina, Tampa Bay could clinch if the Panthers stumble against Seattle next week.
Bowles reminded his team that December football is about resilience: “You get up the next day, put your head down, you go to work, and you try to correct the little things. We’re playing meaningful games in December and that’s all you can ask for.”
Broadcast Information
Sunday’s game between the Buccaneers and Panthers kicks off at 1:00 p.m. ET from Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. The matchup will be televised nationally on FOX, with regional coverage across the NFC South markets. Fans can also tune in via Westwood One Radio and local affiliates, while ESPN Radio will provide national updates throughout the day. Streaming options include NFL+ and FOX Sports digital platforms.
Fired Up and Refocused
The Buccaneers began the season 5-1 and were 6-2 at their bye week, but losses to the Patriots, Bills, Rams, Saints, and Falcons have derailed momentum. Their lone win since was a narrow 20-17 victory over Arizona. Still, Bowles insists the team has everything in front of them. With Evans leading the offense and Bowles demanding accountability, Tampa Bay knows a win in Carolina could reset their season and reignite their push for another NFC South crown.
