Prediction: Bucs at Panthers

The Panthers have a real opportunity to do something meaningful tomorrow. They can respond to last week’s loss, steady themselves, and once again take control of their own fate. For a young team searching for consistency, this is exactly the type of moment that can signal real progress.

There is also the uncomfortable reality hanging over this matchup. Baker Mayfield is 5-0 against Carolina since leaving in 2022. That history alone is enough to test the confidence of any fan base. Maybe this is the week the Panthers finally flip the script. Maybe this is the game where they show they have learned how to finish.

But they are not there yet.

Tampa does not need to dominate to win this game. They will quietly control the tempo, limit mistakes, and take advantage of Carolina’s inconsistencies. The Panthers will make a few plays and keep things interesting just long enough to create a sense of hope, but it will never truly feel in doubt.

This is part of the process for a rebuilding team. The flashes are real, but the consistency is not.

Final score Tampa Bay 28, Carolina 17.