CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured their fourth consecutive playoff appearance with a 9-0 win over the Carolina Panthers, thanks largely to a stellar defensive performance. Despite a lackluster offensive display, the Buccaneers’ defense shut out the Panthers, holding them to just 199 yards and 11 first downs.
Tampa Bay (9-8) entered the game with an all-or-nothing scenario, needing a win to clinch a playoff spot and avoid elimination. The victory sets up a wild-card round matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Kicker Chase McLaughlin scored all the Buccaneers’ points with three field goals, while quarterback Baker Mayfield, returning to Carolina, managed only 137 passing yards.
The Panthers’ offense, led by rookie quarterback Bryce Young, struggled significantly against Tampa Bay’s defense. Young was sacked three times and could only muster 94 passing yards. The Panthers’ woes were compounded by self-inflicted errors, including two overturned potential touchdowns.
Carolina’s back-to-back shutouts mark a first in the team’s 29-year history and the first time any NFL team has been shut out consecutively since the Cleveland Browns in 2008. The Panthers finished the season with a 2-15 record, their worst winning percentage since 2001, but will not benefit from the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2024 due to a trade with the Chicago Bears.
The Panthers’ interim coach, Chris Tabor, hinted at significant changes in the offseason following a disappointing campaign. Young’s rookie season was challenging, but Tabor expressed optimism about his future prospects.
The Buccaneers, meanwhile, shift their focus to the playoffs, where they will host a wild-card game at home. Coach Todd Bowles praised the team’s culture and resilience in the post-Tom Brady era, emphasizing their collective belief and hard work.
Injury-wise, the game saw no major issues for the Buccaneers, while Panthers tight end Tommy Tremble left with a back injury.
As Tampa Bay prepares for their playoff run, Carolina will begin their search for a new head coach, looking to rebuild and improve upon a difficult season.
