<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Baker Mayfield</a> has created a strong bond with Mike Evans during their time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. However, the wide receiver is rumored to retire soon, and the quarterback has gotten honest about the situation.



Mike Evans has been a standout wide receiver for 12 years. However, after several seasons battling injuries and failing to stay fully healthy, his 13th year in the league is now in jeopardy. Nevertheless, Mayfield believes the veteran will return for a key reason: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a> new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.



“I don’t have to really plea with it,” Mayfield said. “Mike’s too much of a competitor and cares too much about Tampa to end his career without 1,000 yards, without a division championship, without a playoff run. And that, first of all, speaks to who Mike is but that’s the truth. And you know he doesn’t want to do that. You could just kind of feel it. 



“Listen, I don’t have any info. I’ve told Mike, ‘This is your decision. Take your time doing it.’ But, understanding who Mike is, this is my guess, that he didn’t want it to end this way. He knows the potential if we’re able to stay a little bit more healthy. Zac will do great things for us, and we’ll go from there. But Mike’s got more in the tank. You could tell with the energy, the fire he had at the end of the year.”



<h2>Age is not just a number</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-evans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mike Evans</a> has been a cornerstone of the Buccaneers’ offense for over a decade. Unfortunately, the 32-year-old is beginning to feel the effects of his veteran status, as injuries during the 2025 season sidelined him for much of the year.



The same situation occurred with Chris Godwin. While he has been a reliable target for Baker Mayfield, he has also struggled to stay healthy in recent seasons, forcing the team to rely heavily on a younger option for much of the 2025 campaign.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/nfl/baker-mayfields-new-oc-gets-big-endorsement-from-todd-bowles-revealing-the-reason-of-why-the-bucs-hired-him"></div>


Emeka Egbuka entered the season as the WR3. However, with both Evans and Godwin dealing with injuries, the rookie stepped up as the primary wide receiver, developing strong chemistry with Mayfield and giving fans optimism about a future without the veteran duo.



If Evans ultimately decides to retire, Godwin is expected to take over as WR1, with Egbuka moving into the WR2 role. While the wide receiver group would still be solid, the Buccaneers’ offense would undoubtedly look very different without Evans on the field.

Buccaneers receive clear message from Baker Mayfield about Mike Evans’ potential exit in 2026

Kevin Stefanski receives strong warning from NFC star ahead of next NFL season

NFC South final standings for Panthers, Bucs after Saints vs Falcons in 2025 Week 18

Buccaneers receive clear message from Baker Mayfield about Mike Evans' potential exit in 2026 - Bolavip US

miniaturas

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> suffered a blow last season by getting bounced in the regular season, not even going to the NFL Playoffs. Hence, Todd Bowles made changes by signing a new offensive coordinator, and now he explained why they hired him to coach the Baker Mayfield-led offense.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/todd-bowles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Todd Bowles</a> was clear on why they chose Zac Robinson as the new OC. “I was very impressed with his plan for getting the most out of the talent we have on that side of the ball. He has a very good understanding of the strengths of our top offensive players,” Todd Bowles said via a team’s statement. He then added, “I am very confident in his ability to teach and develop our young players.”



Robinson knows the Buccaneers’ weapons very well, as he was the Falcons OC in years prior. Hence, he played against Tampa Bay twice a year. He will replace Josh Grizzard, who only had one year and failed to deliver.



<h2>Zac Robinson has a lot of pressure</h2>



Robinson really needs to bring the heat, as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/kevin-stefanski-receives-strong-warning-from-nfc-star-ahead-of-next-nfl-season" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield is already reigniting beef with Kevin Stefanski, who is the new HC of the Falcons</a>. Also, his reputation is on the line. He had four different first rounders on the Falcons roster, and the offense was still not great. Despite having Bijan Robinson, Drake London, Kyle Pitts, Michael Penix Jr. and three first rounders on the offensive line, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Falcons</a> were still not a feared opponent.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/22140525/zac-robinson-1920x1080.webp" alt="Bucs&apos; new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson" class="wp-image-566899"></figure><figcaption>Bucs’ new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson</figcaption></figure>



Now, he will have an even more stacked offensive roster to work with. Two of the last three OCs on the Bucs have become head coaches in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>. Both Dave Canales and Liam Coen are doing wonderful jobs in their respective teams. Therefore, this is a job were Robinson could use as a trampoline if he provides on the promise of making this offense a powerhouse.


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<h2>The Bucs offensive weaponry is incredibly elite and deep</h2>



There is no reason for Tampa Bay not to have a top five offense in the NFL next year. If healthy, the Bucs only need a decent playcalling and they could absolutely blast any defense in front of him.



<ul><li>QB: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield</a></li><li>RB: Bucky Irving</li><li>WR: Mike Evans / Jalen McMillan</li><li>WR: Chris Godwin / Sterling Shepard</li><li>WR: Emeka Egbuka / Tez Johnson</li><li>TE: Cade Otton</li></ul>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="69727e4b3a480cbb48618589" data-title="Is Zac Robinson the right hire?" data-options="2"></div>

Baker Mayfield’s new OC gets big endorsement from Todd Bowles, revealing the reason of why the Bucs hired him

Baker Mayfield's new OC gets big endorsement from Todd Bowles, revealing the reason of why the Bucs hired him - Bolavip US

While the current NFL season has yet to reach its conclusion, many teams are already turning their attention to what’s next. One of them is the Atlanta Falcons, who, after parting ways with Raheem Morris, opted to hire <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kevin-stefanski">Kevin Stefanski</a> as their new head coach.



And from here on out, we’re set to witness a compelling matchup that has already started to heat up well before the preseason even begins. What’s the story behind it? The NFC South will bring together two familiar faces, as Stefanski is set to square off against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Baker Mayfield</a> — a quarterback who doesn’t exactly hold fond memories of his former head coach.



That tension was clearly reflected in the Buccaneers QB’s response to a post from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s D. Orlando Ledbetter, in which the reporter claimed that Stefanski “had a dumpster fire at quarterback in Cleveland,” with Baker Mayfield and Deshaun Watson having both “failed.”



“Failed is quite the reach pal,” Mayfield didn’t hold back in his response. “Still waiting on a text/call from him after I got shipped off like a piece of garbage. Can’t wait to see you twice a year, Coach.“



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/21082803/kevin-stefanski-baker-mayfield-1920x1080.webp" alt="Baker Mayfield and Kevin Stefanski" class="wp-image-566008"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 and head coach Kevin Stefanski.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Mayfield’s tenure in Cleveland</h2>



Baker Mayfield’s tenure with the Cleveland Browns was a rollercoaster of high expectations and ultimate friction. After arriving as the 2018 top pick and setting a rookie record for passing touchdowns, Mayfield initially thrived despite a revolving door of coaching changes. 


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The arrival of Kevin Stefanski in 2020 seemed to be the missing piece, as the duo led Cleveland to a historic playoff run. However, the relationship soon soured; the rigid structure of Stefanski’s system never quite meshed with Mayfield’s playstyle. 



By 2021, a severe labrum injury further strained the partnership, leading to a breakdown in communication and performance that eventually forced the franchise to trade its former cornerstone to the Carolina Panthers.



<h2>Falcons and Bucs will go head-to-head</h2>



The upcoming 2026 NFC South race will be defined by two pivotal clashes between the Atlanta Falcons and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While the official <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> schedule is still pending, it is confirmed that the rivalry will split between the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. 



These matchups carry extra weight this year due to the spicy reunion between Bucs QB Baker Mayfield and his former Browns coach, Kevin Stefanski, who is now leading the Falcons.

Kevin Stefanski receives strong warning from NFC star ahead of next NFL season - Bolavip US

The NFC South race played out like a movie, and unfortunately for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, it was the Panthers who ultimately secured the playoff berth. As a result, the front office quickly took action, and the first changes in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/todd-bowles">Todd Bowles</a>’ staff are already starting to take shape.



According to reports from The Insiders via Ian Rapoport on X, the Bucs will now need to find a new offensive coordinator. Josh Grizzard, who had been serving in the role, was fired, meaning <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield">Baker Mayfield</a> will have a new play-caller moving forward.



During crucial days when there was even speculation that <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/buccaneers-give-baker-mayfield-clarity-on-john-harbaugh-replacing-todd-bowles-in-2026">John Harbaugh could replace Bowles in 2026</a>, that ultimately didn’t happen. However, according also to the insiders, further staff changes in the near term are still not out of the question.



The disappointing final stretch of the season for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Bucs</a> not only kept them out of the playoffs, but now it’s a matter of starting fresh and preparing for what’s ahead.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/08101219/josh-grizzard-1920x1080.webp" alt="Josh Grizzard" class="wp-image-558413"></figure><figcaption>Offensive Coordinator Josh Grizzard of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Who could replace Grizzard?</h2>



As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers move on from Josh Grizzard, names like Todd Monken, Zac Robinson, and Nathan Scheelhaase have already surfaced as potential candidates to spark a stagnant offense. 


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This search carries extra weight as Todd Bowles enters his fifth year at the helm; in a staggering display of coaching turnover, Bowles will be working with his fifth different offensive coordinator in as many seasons, a revolving door that many insiders believe makes the 2026 campaign a “make-or-break” year for his tenure in Tampa.

Todd Bowles reportedly parts ways with Buccaneers coach after missing 2026 NFL playoffs

Todd Bowles reportedly parts ways with Buccaneers coach after missing 2026 NFL playoffs - Bolavip US

Following a shocking elimination in the 2025 NFL season, speculation emerged that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a> might part ways with Todd Bowles. With John Harbaugh on the market, Tampa Bay has now clarified the situation to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield</a> regarding the 2026 head coach.



The Buccaneers failed to secure their fifth consecutive NFC South title in 2025. The team fell well short of expectations, fueling speculation about whether Todd Bowles would return in 2026—especially after the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl/ravens-fire-john-harbaugh-his-record-in-baltimore-and-potential-landing-spots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ravens fired John Harbaugh</a>.



Despite the rumors, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/todd-bowles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bowles</a> has now confirmed that he will return as head coach in 2026. According to the Tampa Bay Times, he met with team ownership on Tuesday and secured his position for at least one more season.



<h2>The last chance for Todd Bowles</h2>



While Todd Bowles has confirmed his return for 2026, it could represent his final opportunity to prove he can deliver postseason success with the Buccaneers. Since taking over as head coach in 2022, he has led Tampa Bay to three NFC South titles, but the organization expects deeper playoff runs.



Under Bowles’ leadership, the Buccaneers have lost twice in the Wild Card round and once in the Divisional round. The roster remains talented, yet the team has lacked the dominance it displayed during its Super Bowl run in 2020 with Tom Brady at quarterback.



The team’s decision to retain Bowles signals strong confidence in him. Nevertheless, many fans believe 2026 could be his final season in Tampa Bay if he fails to reclaim the NFC South and guide the team on a deep playoff run with this talented roster.


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<h2>Will Baker Mayfield return with the Buccaneers in 2026?</h2>



Baker Mayfield is entering the final year of the contract extension he signed with the Buccaneers in 2024, so he is expected to return next season. He has been solid for Tampa Bay, but production alone means little if it does not translate into postseason success.



At 32 years old, Mayfield could be in line for another extension, though it would likely be a short-term deal. The Buccaneers must also begin planning for their long-term future at quarterback to avoid another last-minute transition like the one that followed Tom Brady’s retirement in 2023.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="695ecc2083cd5ad944865bea" data-title="Should the Buccaneers fire Todd Bowles?" data-options="2"></div>

Buccaneers give Baker Mayfield clarity on John Harbaugh replacing Todd Bowles in 2026

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NFL teams with the most consecutive losses in history: Which franchise holds the record?

Buccaneers give Baker Mayfield clarity on John Harbaugh replacing Todd Bowles in 2026 - Bolavip US

Mercedes-Benz Stadium set the stage for one of the most electrifying games of Week 18, as the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-orleans-saints">New Orleans Saints</a> and Atlanta Falcons put on a spectacular show. The matchup ultimately decided who would claim the NFC South, between the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.



The Falcons’ 19-17 victory was celebrated all the more in Carolina, as it ensured that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Panthers</a> finally took the division. As a result, Bryce Young and his squad will face the No. 5 seed in the playoffs.



Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield will have to wait another year to make the playoffs. A string of four painful losses down the stretch kept the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Buccaneers</a> out of a Wild Card spot.



<h2>NFC South final standings after Week 18</h2>



Saturday night’s loss for the Panthers in Tampa Bay could have sealed the fate of Dave Canales and his players. However, relief came from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta</a>, where the home team defeated the Saints, ultimately handing the Panthers the top spot in the NFC South.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260104_BUS_556484_bryce-young-4_09fd93d0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-549297"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers.</figcaption></figure>



<ul><li>Carolina Panthers (8-9)</li><li>Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9)</li><li>Atlanta Falcons (8-9)</li><li>New Orleans Saints (6-11)</li></ul>


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<h2>Why the Panthers claimed the division</h2>



The Carolina Panthers clinched the NFC South thanks to a specific NFL tiebreaker rule for three-way ties. While the Buccaneers held the advantage over the Panthers in a two-way tie (based on a better record against common opponents), the situation changed once the Atlanta Falcons also finished 8-9. 



In a three-way tie at the top of a division, the first tiebreaker is head-to-head win percentage among all tied teams. Because the Panthers swept the Falcons during the regular season, they finished with a superior 3-1 record in head-to-head matchups against Tampa Bay and Atlanta combined, handing them the division title and the No. 4 seed.



<h2>What’s next for the Panthers?</h2>



After a dramatic turn of events on the final day of the 2025 season, the Carolina Panthers have officially clinched the NFC South title—their first since 2015. As the No. 4 seed, the Panthers will now host a home playoff game at Bank of America Stadium during Wild Card Weekend, where they are set to face either the San Francisco 49ers or the Los Angeles Rams.

NFC South final standings for Panthers, Bucs after Saints vs Falcons in 2025 Week 18 - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-orleans-saints">New Orleans Saints</a> had a terrible start to the 2025 season with a 2-10 record. In Kellen Moore’s first year as head coach, the franchise seemed destined to secure the No. 1 overall pick.



Moore gave Spencer Rattler the opportunity to be the starting quarterback in the first half of the schedule, and then Tyler Shough. That move led the Saints to win five of their last seven games in an impressive turnaround.



Although the New Orleans Saints are already eliminated, they will have the opportunity to determine who wins the NFC South when they face the Atlanta Falcons. The outcome of that game will confirm whether the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> or the Panthers make the playoffs.



<h2>What happens if Saints lose to Falcons?</h2>



If the Saints lose to the Falcons, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be officially eliminated, and the Carolina Panthers will be crowned NFC South champions. With this outcome, the Panthers would enter the playoffs as the No. 4 seed in the conference.


 

 


<h2>What happens if Saints win over Falcons?</h2>



If the Saints get a win over the Falcons, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be NFC South champions and would clinch a playoff spot. The Carolina Panthers would be eliminated. It’s important to mention that if New Orleans and Atlanta tie, the Bucs would also win the division title.


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What happens if New Orleans Saints lose or win today vs Atlanta Falcons in 2025 NFL Week 18?

Are the Panthers eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Buccaneers?

What happens if Falcons lose or win today against Saints in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

What happens if Saints lose or win today vs Falcons in NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

What happens if Saints lose or win vs Falcons in 2025 NFL Week 18?

What happens if Saints lose or win today vs Falcons in 2025 NFL Week 18?

The Atlanta Falcons had high expectations for the 2025 season after an impressive rookie year from Michael Penix Jr. The young quarterback was chosen as the starter over <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kirk-cousins">Kirk Cousins</a> to lead an offense that included big names like Bijan Robinson, Drake London, and Kyle Pitts.



However, the results were disappointing. With a 4–9 record in Week 14, they were practically out of playoff contention, and many experts began to question the future of Raheem Morris as the team’s head coach. A franchise that dreamed of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> ended up in surprising mediocrity.



Suddenly, the players decided to stand up for Morris and his coaching staff on the field. The Falcons turned things around and achieved three consecutive wins after Penix got injured and Cousins took back the reins. This has given hope for 2026 and granted them a strange privilege in the NFC South: controlling the Panthers’ and Buccaneers’ path to the playoffs.



<h2>What happens if Falcons lose today against Saints?</h2>



If the Falcons lose today against the Saints, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be NFC South champions and would have their playoff berth secured. In this scenario, the Panthers would be eliminated. A tie would also give the divisional title to the Bucs.


 

 


<h2>What happens if Falcons beat Saints in Week 18?</h2>



If the Atlanta Falcons defeat the New Orleans Saints, the Panthers would win the NFC South title. There would be a three-way tie at the top of the division with an 8-9 record, and Carolina would come out on top due to the tiebreaker for better performance against common opponents.


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What happens if Atlanta Falcons lose or win today against New Orleans Saints in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

What happens if Buccaneers win today against Panthers in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season?

What happens if Falcons lose or win today against Saints in NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

What happens if Falcons lose or win today vs Saints?

The NFC South picture became a bit clearer after the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> edged the Carolina Panthers 16–14 at home, a result that gives Tampa Bay another path to the playoffs and a chance to be crowned division champions, pending a key outcome on Sunday, January 4.



With the win, the Buccaneers improved to 8–9, but their playoff fate now hinges on the New Orleans Saints defeating the Atlanta Falcons. If New Orleans takes care of business, Tampa Bay would claim the NFC South title and secure a playoff spot.



Atlanta, meanwhile, must beat the Saints to keep <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina</a>’s hopes alive. The Panthers also sit at 8–9 but would lose a tiebreaker to the Buccaneers due to their head-to-head record, which would be enough to push them into the playoffs and avoid elimination following their disappointing loss in Tampa Bay.



<h2>NFC South standings</h2>



The Buccaneers currently sit atop the NFC South standings at 8–9, but as previously explained, the Panthers, despite having the same record, have not been eliminated yet. Their path depends on the 7–9 Falcons taking care of business against a struggling 6–10 Saints team.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Baker Mayfield… ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! 🤯 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CARvsTB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CARvsTB</a> on ESPN <a href="https://t.co/vibJ3FEb2z">pic.twitter.com/vibJ3FEb2z</a>— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) <a href="https://twitter.com/Buccaneers/status/2007583903184293905?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-regular"><table><thead><tr><td>Team</td><td>W</td><td>L</td><td>T</td><td>Pct</td><td>PF</td><td>PA</td><td>Home</td><td>Away</td><td>Strk</td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Buccaneers</td><td>8</td><td>9</td><td>0</td><td>.471</td><td>380</td><td>411</td><td>4-4</td><td>4-5</td><td>W1</td></tr><tr><td>Panthers</td><td>8</td><td>9</td><td>0</td><td>.471</td><td>311</td><td>380</td><td>5-3</td><td>3-6</td><td>L2</td></tr><tr><td>Falcons</td><td>7</td><td>9</td><td>0</td><td>.438</td><td>334</td><td>384</td><td>3-4</td><td>4-5</td><td>W3</td></tr><tr><td>Saints</td><td>6</td><td>10</td><td>0</td><td>.375</td><td>289</td><td>364</td><td>3-5</td><td>3-5</td><td>W4</td></tr></tbody></table><figcaption>Data from NFL.com</figcaption></figure>


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Another result that would help the Buccaneers clinch the NFC South title would be a tie between the Falcons and Saints, an outcome that rarely happens, but one that remains possible. Historically, Atlanta holds a slim 57–56–0 edge in the series, leaving the door open for a scenario that could still favor Tampa Bay.



The last time Atlanta beat New Orleans came in November 2025, a 24–10 win that showcased their offensive firepower. That result is what gives Panthers fans some hope, as the Falcons appear to be a slightly stronger team than the Saints heading into this matchup.

NFC South final standings updated after Bucs-Panthers in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season

NFC South final standings updated after Bucs-Panthers in Week 18 of 2025 NFL season - Bolavip US

In Week 18, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> and the Carolina Panthers met with the NFC South title on the line. However, there was more at stake than just the division crown, as a Panthers player secured a $1 million bonus in the first half against <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield</a>’s team.



The NFC South featured a highly compelling matchup in Week 18, with the Buccaneers and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a> squaring off to decide the division champion in an intense contest at Raymond James Stadium.



At halftime, the Buccaneers headed to the locker room holding a 13-7 lead. Despite the temporary deficit, Panthers running back Rico Dowdle left the field with a smile after locking in a massive incentive.



<h2>Rico Dowdle earns $1 million bonus in first half against Buccaneers</h2>



Rico Dowdle entered Week 18 with two objectives: help defeat the Buccaneers and record seven scrimmage yards. While the outcome of the game remained undecided, the second goal was accomplished before halftime.



According to his contract, Dowdle was eligible for a $1 million bonus if he reached 1,350 scrimmage yards on the season. He entered the game just seven yards shy of the mark and quickly cleared it with 10 rushing yards in the first half, securing the incentive.



That was not the only bonus Dowdle was chasing in Week 18. With one more touchdown on the season, the running back would earn an additional $250,000, something he will be aiming for in the second half against Tampa Bay.


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Panthers are on the verge of historic feat with a win over Buccaneers in Week 18

Baker Mayfield's Buccaneers help Panthers star earn $1 million incentive in Week 18 - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> seem to be on the right path in their latest rebuilding process, led by Dave Canales as head coach and Bryce Young as the starting quarterback.



Despite the many doubts about Young as a franchise QB, the Alabama prospect managed to bounce back after a tough rookie year and has established himself as the undisputed starter.



Now, the Panthers could have a chance to fight for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> if they defeat the Buccaneers to win the NFC South. However, a loss could derail their postseason hopes.



<h2>Are the Panthers out of the playoffs if they lose to Buccaneers?</h2>



No. The Carolina Panthers are not out of the playoffs even if they lose to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In this scenario, a win by the Atlanta Falcons over the New Orleans Saints would make the Panthers NFC South champions and earn them a ticket to the postseason.


 

 


<h2>What happens if the Panthers beat the Buccaneers in Week 18?</h2>



If the Carolina Panthers defeat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 18, they will clinch their playoff berth as NFC South champions. That would make them the No. 4 seed in the conference, with a home game in the Wild Card round.


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Are the Carolina Panthers eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Tampa Bay Buccaneers?

What happens if Panthers lose or win today against Buccaneers in NFL Week 18 of 2025 season?

Are the Panthers eliminated from playoffs with loss to Bucs? - Bolavip US

Are Panthers eliminated from playoffs with loss vs Buccaneers?

Despite a disastrous second half of the season, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> still have a chance to make the playoffs with a win over the Carolina Panthers and a Falcons loss against the New Orleans Saints.



The surprising Falcons’ victory on Monday Night Football over <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford">Matthew Stafford</a> and the Los Angeles Rams changed the entire outlook, as, in a scenario no one expected, the Bucs no longer fully control their destiny.



When the Week 18 games were announced last Sunday, it seemed that the matchup between Tampa and Carolina would be a “winner goes in, loser goes home” situation. However, in an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> season full of surprises, the NFC South is headed for a crazy finish.



<h2>Are Bucs eliminated from playoffs if they lose to Panthers?</h2>



Yes. The Bucs are eliminated from the playoffs if they lose against the Carolina Panthers. In addition to missing out on the division title, they cannot catch the Green Bay Packers in the race for the No. 7 spot in the conference.


 

 


<h2>Do the Bucs have a chance at the playoffs?</h2>



The Bucs have a chance at the playoffs but do not control their destiny. Even if they beat the Carolina Panthers, they need the Falcons to lose to the Saints. If the Atlanta Falcons win that game, regardless of the result between Carolina and Tampa, the Panthers will be NFC South champions.


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Are the Buccaneers eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Panthers?

What happens if Tampa Bay Buccaneers lose today against Panthers in 2025 NFL Week 18?

Are the Bucs eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Panthers in Week 18? - Bolavip US

Are the Bucs eliminated with loss to Panthers?

Are the Bucs eliminated from NFL playoffs with loss to Panthers?

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> and Carolina Panthers will face each other in a Week 18 showdown of the 2025&nbsp;<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a>&nbsp;regular season. Here’s everything you need to know, including kickoff details and streaming options for USA fans, so you don’t miss any of the action.



<a href="https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191277?irad=356362&amp;irmp=3119684" rel="sponsored nofollow">[Watch Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Carolina Panthers online in the USA on Fubo]</a>



With everything on the line in the final week of the NFL regular season, this matchup carries postseason stakes that will define the outcome for both franchises. The NFC South title remains unresolved, and the winner here secures a playoff berth, turning this contest into a true win-or-go-home scenario.



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> enter Week 18 holding a narrow edge atop the division at 8-8, but the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are close behind at 7-9 and control their own destiny with a victory. One game, one division crown, and one ticket to the playoffs are all on the line in a season-defining showdown.



<h2>When will the Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Carolina Panthers match be played?</h2>



Tampa Bay Buccaneers will face Carolina Panthers in Week 18 of the 2025&nbsp;NFL&nbsp;regular season on&nbsp;Saturday, January 3. Kickoff is scheduled for&nbsp;4:30 PM (ET).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555201_Claudin-Cherelus_ac6284d8.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-555224"></figure><figcaption>Claudin Cherelus of the Carolina Panthers – Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>


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<h2>Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Carolina Panthers: Time by State in the USA</h2>



ET: 4:30 PM CT: 3:30 PM MT: 2:30 PM PT: 1:30 PM



<h2>How to watch Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Carolina Panthers in the USA</h2>



The&nbsp;NFL&nbsp;matchup between the&nbsp;Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers will be available for live streaming on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191277?irad=356362&amp;irmp=3119684" rel="sponsored nofollow">Fubo</a>. Fans can also catch the game on ABC and ESPN.

Where to watch Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Carolina Panthers in the USA: 2025 NFL Regular Season Game

Where to watch Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Carolina Panthers in the USA: 2025 NFL Regular Season Game - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> have been one of the biggest surprises in the NFL in Dave Canales’ second season as head coach. After a disappointing 2024 with a 5-12 record, patience with Bryce Young was key to turning the team around.



Now, the improvement is noticeable. The Panthers are in the hunt for the NFC South until the final week of the season and, throughout the year, they have had marquee triumphs over rivals like the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a>, the Los Angeles Rams, and the Green Bay Packers.



However, all that effort could be in vain if they don’t secure a victory against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> in Week 18. Find out what happens to the Panthers if they win or lose on the road.



<h2>What happens if Panthers lose today against Bucs?</h2>



If the Panthers lose today against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they would need the Atlanta Falcons to defeat the New Orleans Saints in order to win the NFC South. This would create a three-way tie at the top of the division, and after applying the common opponents tiebreakers, Carolina would be the division champion. It is important to note that a loss does not yet eliminate the Panthers from the playoffs.


 

 


<h2>What happens if Panthers beat Buccaneers in Week 18?</h2>



If the Carolina Panthers get a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, they will be NFC South champions and secure a spot in the playoffs. Additionally, during the Wild Card round, they will have a home game as the No. 4 seed.


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What happens if Carolina Panthers lose or win against Tampa Bay Buccaneers in NFL Week 18?

What happens if Panthers lose or win against Buccaneers in NFL Week 18? - Bolavip US

What happens if Panthers lose or win today against Buccaneers?

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 18 for the right to win the NFC South and subsequently, go to the NFL Playoffs. However, if the Panthers win, they would achieve something unprecedented.



According to Doug Clawson of CBS Sports, the 8-8 Panthers would be the first team since the merger (1970) to make the playoffs without having a win as the odds-on favorites. This is as incredible as a stat get. Going to the postseason, eventually having nine wins (they are underdogs vs. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a>) and none of them coming as a favorite is borderline impossible to get replicated.



For instance, the Jets also have no wins as favorites. However, they are 3-13 and way eliminated from playoff contention. The fact that Carolina is alive with a stat like this is just an indictment of the overachieving season the team has had.



<h2>A loss could mean imminent change for the Bucs</h2>



The Buccaneers can’t afford to lose. Their collapse has been brutal this season and ending it without playoff football would mean changes need to be made. The team started 5-1 and then lost eight out of the following 10 games.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20260103_BUS_555426_baker-mayfield-4_213d913b.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers." class="wp-image-540970"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/baker-mayfield" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Baker Mayfield</a> has also shown a steep decline this season. However, the amount of injuries his skill players have suffered and the fact that he is also playing on an injured shoulder might have hampered his production. After all, this was a team with very high expectations.


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<h2>NFC South winner will likely be underdog in the Wild Card Round</h2>



Whoever wins the Panthers vs. Buccaneers game will end up as the fourth seed in the NFC. However, despite being the home team for the Wild Card Round, it will likely be the underdog. 



They will face either the 49ers, Seahawks, or <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rams</a> in the Wild Card Round, all three teams with double-digit wins. All will be favorites to beat either NFC South team. Having said that, the Panthers already beat the Rams this week. As for the Bucs, they beat both the Seahawks and 49ers, albeit both within the first six games of the season.

Panthers are on the verge of historic feat with a win over Buccaneers in Week 18 - Bolavip US

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