Panthers: 2018 NFC South opponents preview
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2017 RECORD: 5-11
OFFENSE: 9th 363.5 YPG • 18th 20.9 PPG
DEFENSE: 32nd 378.1 YPG • 22nd 23.9 PPG
ALL-TIME RECORD: 22-13
LAST MEETING: 12/24/2017, WIN 22-19
Expected to surprise many in 2017, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered a litany of injuries and never could gain any real momentum during the year. Losing five in a row twice during the year, the Buccaneers only divisional victory came in the final game of their season over New Orleans.
A positive note to end their year, beating the divisional winners, expect the Buccaneers to compete more consistently next season. Coach Dirk Koetter is returning to lead Tampa Bay next season after a tumultuous season and rumors of his departure. Another losing season or slow start in 2018 would likely have the Buccaneers searching for new leadership next offseason.
Despite all three divisional teams quickly exiting the playoffs, each has a core group of playmakers returning and should provide some entertaining matchups throughout the season with plenty of story lines to follow.
Next: 2018 Preview - Home Games
Overall, the division should again be highly competitive and one of the best in the league next year.