Buccaneers 2017 season preview: Game predictions

Nov 13, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) and teammates huddle up against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) and teammates huddle up against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
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Week 16: at Carolina Panthers, 1:00 PM

The Bucs will travel to Carolina to finish the season series against the Panthers. After the first matchup, the Panthers will look to avoid being swept for the second year in a row. The Panthers will be in the midst of a bounce back season and will need this game for their playoff aspirations.

At 9-5, the Bucs will be in the midst of the playoff race as well. It’s another divisional game, and we know how important those are. Just like the Panthers, the Bucs will need this game to further their playoff hopes. The race for January for teams with 5-7 losses is always close. These games are huge and this one is no different. December football is always the best.

The Bucs will show the world that they want it more, and will complete the sweep in back to back years. The Panthers will put up a great fight, leaving the game tied at the end of regulation. However, the extra session will be all Tampa, and the Bucs will finish Carolina off in overtime. In what will be the only OT game for the Bucs, Tampa Bay will leave victorious as Jameis leads them down the field for a TD.

Prediction: Bucs win 26-20, move to 10-5

Schedule