Carolina Panthers: Week 2 game day links and news

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 24: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers signals a first down against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 24: Cam Newton #1 of the Carolina Panthers signals a first down against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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Playing on a short week, the Carolina Panthers return to action Thursday night.

The Carolina Panthers don’t have much time to dwell on a season opening loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Facing rival Tampa Bay on Thursday night, Carolina can even their record with a victory. The visiting Buccaneers are also looking for their first win of the young season after losing 31-17 to San Francisco last week.

An intriguing divisional contest, both teams are hoping to avoid carrying over any mistakes from last week. For Carolina, costly first-half fumbles resulted in the Panthers failing to gain any early momentum. The Buccaneers had two turnovers of their own turn into immediate points for the opposition, which is always hard to overcome.

Carolina leads the all-time series 23-14, including five of the last six at home. The first of two games against Tampa Bay this season, the next one will be played at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London) in just a few weeks.

Read up on everything you need to know about the first divisional matchup of the season below.

Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Game Information
Time, channel, weather and other useful information for this prime time matchup.

Keys to the Game
See how the Panthers can find success and secure their first win of the season.

Players to Watch

A few Panthers players to watch, including defensive lineman Gerald McCoy, who is facing his former team for the first time since his departure during the offseason.

You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers
Three legitimate concerns about the Panthers roster entering their Week 2 contest on a short week.

Buccaneers Players to Watch
These opposition players could make a big impact on the game. Keep a close eye on their performance as the evening transpires.

Next. Week 1 Grades. dark

The Panthers and Buccaneers kickoff at 8:20 PM EST inside Bank of America Stadium.