5 bold predictions for the Panthers vs. Buccaneers in Week 16
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers win
This is as bold as it gets when one considers the form and current atmosphere surrounding the Carolina Panthers. But on the face of things, there might not be a better chance for the team to triumph over the defending Super Bowl champions.
Tom Brady is without some outstanding weapons and his protection struggled mightily last time out. Couple this with a suspect secondary and the absence of Lavonte David at the second level, things might not be too bleak where Carolina is concerned.
It’s also worth remembering that Cam Newton has a good record against Brady in years gone by. Something that should give the signal-caller plenty of confidence despite Sam Darnold lurking in the shadows.
If the Panthers can somehow pull out a victory, it might be enough to save Matt Rhule’s job.
The head coach would undoubtedly use this game as an example of what can be achieved when discussing the season with team owner David Tepper, who clearly believed in the former Baylor man enough to hand him a seven-year, $60 million deal to keep him from the New York Giants.
Playoff football might be unattainable. But that doesn’t mean the Panthers don’t have a lot on the line with futures hanging in the balance – something that could inspire them in the face of exceptional opposition.