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Grading the Panthers defense vs. Tampa Bay

By Brandon Scott

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 24: Shaq Green-Thompson #54 of the Carolina Panthers celebrates after a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 24: Shaq Green-Thompson #54 of the Carolina Panthers celebrates after a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Carolina Panthers
CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 24: Damiere Byrd #18 of the Carolina Panthers returns a kick for a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Special Teams: A-

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Special teams continues to play a vital role in the success for Carolina. On Sunday they struck again in the form of a 103-yard kickoff return touchdown from wide receiver Damiere Byrd.

The longest such return in franchise history, he unfortunately was hurt late and again placed on injured reserve ending his season earlier than anticipated.

Kicker Graham Gano came up big for Carolina, converting three field goal attempts despite having one extra point blocked.

Overall, the defensive performance was lacking by virtue of the number of big plays allowed but performed well enough for the win. By keeping Tampa Bay out of the end zone, Carolina gave their offense an opportunity to win the game late.

Next: CAR vs. TB Report Card - Offense

Now at 11-4, the Panthers have extended their season and still have an opportunity at the divisional title, with a win and New Orleans loss, entering their final game.

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