Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-8) vs. Carolina Panthers (2-14)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers 1/7/24 – In the final week of the NFL regular season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, standing at an even 8-8, travel to face the struggling Carolina Panthers with a record of 2-14. This Week 18 matchup, set for Sunday, promises to be a pivotal game, especially for the Buccaneers, who are eyeing a better postseason seeding. Broadcasted on FOX at 1:00 PM ET, this game has drawn significant interest, particularly from those looking for no-cost NFL Super Bowl selections to enhance their betting strategies.
The Buccaneers’ offense has been an amalgam of aerial prowess and ground game efficiency. Quarterback Baker Mayfield has been outstanding, amassing 3,907 passing yards and 28 touchdowns; wide receiver Mike Evans has proven especially productive with 1233 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns; his connection with wideout Rachaad White (925 rushing yards, 6 touchdowns). Meanwhile, Rachaad White’s running game has provided steady but unspectacular support on the ground game, providing reliable options.
At the other end of the spectrum, Carolina Panthers have struggled offensively this year. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young has experienced mixed success during his debut, managing 2783 passing yards and 11 touchdowns while also surrendering 10 interceptions and suffering through 59 sacks – leaving them vulnerable in their pocket and forcing Chuba Hubbard into running games with limited success – amassing 819 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns himself while Adam Thielen provided reliable targets with 1002 receiving yards and four touchdowns alone!
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers 1/7/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024 at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Bank of America Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Baker Mayfield QB vs. Bryce Young QB
Baker Mayfield compiling 3,907 yards through the air while keeping his turnovers to a minimum during the Bucs’ late push for a wild card spot. His willingness to stand tall in the pocket and deliver strikes downfield was a large factor behind Tampa Bay’s 4 wins in their last 5 games. Mayfield displayed precision accuracy in finding his receivers in stride as well as excellent anticipation to release the ball before the target is open. He also contributed with his legs, using mobility to extend plays and pick up first downs when passing lanes were clogged. His experience and football IQ give Tampa Bay an edge at the game’s most critical position.
On the other side, Bryce Young has shown flashes of promise in his first season but has largely been overwhelmed behind a porous Panthers offensive line. Carolina has given up the fourth-most sacks in the NFL, often leaving their young quarterback under heavy duress attempting to scan the field. This has frequently led to Young forcing throws under pressure or tucking and running before pass patterns have had sufficient time to develop downfield. He has above-average arm talent but needs far better protection and perimeter weapons to unlock his full potential. Look for Mayfield’s poise and playmaking ability to give him a sizable head-to-head advantage over the overwhelmed rookie.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -225, Total Odds: 37.5
The Buccaneers are the clear favorites, reflected in their -225 moneyline. The spread of -4.5 points suggests confidence in their ability to win by more than a field goal. The total points over/under of 37.5 indicates expectations of a moderately scoring game, which aligns with both teams’ offensive capabilities and defensive vulnerabilities.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay is 7-3 against the spread (ATS) in their last 10 games displaying an ability to consistently cover inflated lines. Additionally, they are 5-2 ATS in their previous 7 meetings with Carolina. The Bucs are also rolling on offense, with the total going over in 4 of their last 6 games. Riding these positive betting trends bodes well for Tampa to cover as road favorites.
Carolina Panthers Betting Trends
The Panthers have been dreadful down the stretch, covering just twice during a nine-game losing skid. Carolina is 1-8 straight up in its last nine contests. Defensively, they have performed better at home allowing an average of just 16.6 points across their past six Bank of America Stadium contests. Couple that with Tampa Bay’s inconsistency on the road this year as a mere 3-5 ATS.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers 1/7/24 Betting Picks
Considering the overall performance and betting trends, Tampa Bay appears to be the stronger team. Their experienced quarterback and solid receiving corps give them an edge over the Panthers’ struggling offense.
For premium picks and parlays, Tampa Bay seems the safer bet, especially considering their historical dominance over Carolina and their current form. The point spread is reasonable given Tampa Bay’s offensive capabilities. Prop bets on key players like Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans could offer additional value.
Free Pick and Prediction: Tampa Bay Buccaneers 22, Carolina Panthers 12