4 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers at Bucs in Week 18

Carolina Panthers defense holds Tampa Bay under 20 points

It’s been the same old story for the Carolina Panthers this season. As the offense struggles to generate anything meaningful, Phil Snow’s defense has done all they possibly can to keep them in games over the course of the campaign.

They’ve had some bad moments, obviously. But this needs to put into context as it would be extremely difficult for even the most elite defensive unit to find exceptional consistency when the offense finds it so difficult staying on the field.

That might be the case yet again at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers if the offensive line continues to regress and quarterback Sam Darnold cannot move the chains. Tom Brady and the Bucs are a devastating force even without some of their top dogs and they easily put up points on Carolina during their first outing back in Week 16.

Snow and his players won’t want to end a positive season overall on a low note. And there is every chance Tampa Bay’s starters might not be in for the entire game given they haven’t locked down the No. 1 seed and will be in postseason action next weekend.

That improves the Panthers’ chances, no doubt about it. However, they need everything to go right and – more importantly – some rest.

If they could restrict the Bucs to 20 points or less, it might come with an elusive triumph.

Easier said than done, obviously. But this group should be highly motivated nonetheless.