Buccaneers get what they deserve after Week 18 disaster originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers ' 2025 season has officially come to an end.

Canales' "aggressive" attempt came when the Panthers, down 16-7 in the fourth quarter, needed a score. Instead, it resulted in a fumble and probably erased at least three points in what was ultimately a two-point win for the Bucs.

Carolina Panthers vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers picks, predictions, odds, win probabilities for NFL Week 18 Saturday game on Jan. 3. Who will win today?

The stakes are high for this Week 18 NFC South showdown, as the Panthers and Bucs square off to determine a division champion.

SportsLine's model reveals its Tampa Bay Bucs vs. Carolina Panthers best bets for Saturday's crucial NFC South clash

The Buccaneers did enough to win on the scoreboard, but the film still screams “unfinished product.” Tampa Bay led 13-7 at halftime and stretched it to 16-7 early in the fourth quarter, yet allowed Carolina back into it with a late touchdown drive before sealing the game with a last-play fumble recovery.

Buccaneers remove quarterback Baker Mayfield from their Week 18 injury report on Thursday ahead of Panthers matchup

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Head Coach Todd Bowles spoke to the media after Thursday''s Week 18 practice. HC Bowles discussed status updates and his thoughts before a pivotal matchup vs. the Panthers.