On Christmas Night, it looked like the Arizona Cardinals had a golden chance to hand the Carolina Panthers a massive favor and boost their chances of clinching the NFC South Division. However, Tom Brady led another heroic comeback which allowed Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-8) to win 19-16 in overtime – this was devastating news for Steve Wilks’ team.
Despite being heartbroken by the result, the Panthers need to remain focused on winning both upcoming games in order to earn an AFC South advantage as well as host a playoff contest at Bank of America Stadium for the first time since winning the NFC Championship in 2015.
Fortunately, the Panthers were incredibly dominant when they faced Detroit Lions last time out so it is likely that they will manage to gain success once again as they face the Bucs, themselves.
NFL Week 17 Odds: Panthers vs Buccaneers
Odds Via BetMGM Online Sportsbook
| Spread | Total | Moneyline | |
| CAR Panthers | +3 (-110) | Over 39.5 (-110) | +135 |
| TB Buccaneers | -3 (-110) | Under 39.5 (-110) | -160 |
| How many points will Buccaneers Record? | |||
| Over 20.5 (-115) | Under 20.5 (+110) |
Odds Via FanDuel Online Sportsbook
| Spread | Total | Moneyline | |
| CAR Panthers | +3 (-110) | Over 39.5 (-110) | +136 |
| TB Buccaneers | -3 (-110) | Under 39.5 (-110) | -162 |
| Will there be Overtime? | Yes +1420 | No -3500 |
The stated NFL odds may change, depending on news and other relevant updates. More betting markets may be accessed through the legal online sportsbooks in your area.
Bucs May Secure NFC South crown
Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have had a rigorous season but they are in the driver’s seat to repeat and may reclaim the NFC South crown this Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. As every football fan knows, though, victory comes never easily – and the Bucs’ have been hit especially hard in this regard.
“You want to play good December football and you want to be playing meaningful games,” Bowles said. “Next week, they need it and we need it, so it’s going to be a good battle.”
Following the latest mishap with RT Tristan Wirfs returning from a high ankle sprain only to reinjure it when someone fell on top of his ankle, as well as questions surrounding Smith’s availability later in the week, it is clear that getting to claim their coveted playoff spot will take much more than just luck – but rather resolute determination in spite of all odds.
Can the Panthers Repeat?
The Carolina Panthers have already stunned the Tampa Bay Buccaneers once this season, and they are confident that they can do it again. Although it’s difficult to pull off an upset win on the road in a playoff atmosphere, Carolina is doing so with much more enthusiasm than expected after their disappointing start. This team has whipped themselves into shape, rising from the ashes of doubt cast upon them.
The belief that permeates throughout the organization can no longer be disputed. Optimism is teeming through the Panthers’ locker room and in many ways, that could give them that extra edge they need to topple Tom Brady’s favorite squad under pressure-filled circumstances.