4 reasons the Carolina Panthers can beat the Buccaneers in Week 17

(Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports) Yetur Gross-Matos
(Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports) Yetur Gross-Matos /
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There are reasons to suggest another big win could be coming for the Carolina Panthers against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 17.

Excitement is building ahead of what promises to be another fascinating encounter for the Carolina Panthers with huge ramifications. Sunday’s trip to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers represents a knockout scenario for the organization in pursuit of a playoff berth, which is something not many predicted following a 1-5 start and more questions than answers about the team’s long-term stability.

Steve Wilks is turning things around encouragingly and everyone is buying in. For all of Matt Rhule’s big talk, this was a riddle he was unable to solve and one only has to examine the culture shift within a short timeframe as further proof.

The Buccaneers know one victory will clinch the NFC South championship, so they won’t be backing down an inch. They also have Tom Brady, who might be regressing but knows exactly what it takes to come through in these situations.

There is an enormous sense of anticipation from a fanbase that’s been starved of genuine hope in recent years. It won’t be easy, but here are four reasons why the Panthers can beat Tampa Bay in Week 17.

Reason No. 1

Carolina Panthers
(Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports) Steve Wilks /

Carolina Panthers have momentum

Momentum is everything at this time of year. Getting hot with postseason football just around the corner can make a huge difference and despite their disappointing loss versus the Pittsburgh Steelers, confidence is building for the Carolina Panthers thanks to the supreme leadership of Steve Wilks.

The interim head coach is 3-1 over the last four games and 4-2 over the previous six. So providing this confidence is put to good use, the Panthers should have a strong chance when they take the field at Raymond James Stadium this weekend.