The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> face a must-win situation in Week 16 of the 2025 NFL season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. A win could boost their chances to go to the playoffs, and a loss… let’s just say the team doesn’t even want to entertain that possibility.



The Panthers’ playoff probability could go as low as a 5% if they lose to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a> today. Meanwhile, a win sends them up to 43%. The Buccaneers are underachieving, and the Panthers overachieving, but both teams find themselves 7-7 fighting for the NFC South title.



The Buccaneers were supposed to be a Super Bowl contender, but injuries have absolutely demolished those expectations. As for the Panthers, they weren’t even supposed to be a decent team, and they have overachieved massively but now it’s not time to look back, it’s time to win games.



<h2>The Panthers offense is a frisky unit</h2>



While there are many doubts over quarterback <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bryce-young" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bryce Young</a>, the fact is this Panthers offense has been better than expected, without being elite or like that, but just frisky. They have the ninth-best rushing offense thanks to running backs Rico Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard, who have combined for 1,902 scrimmage yards and 11 touchdowns this season.



<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_20251221_BUS_549082_tet-mcmillan_6349b3d1.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Tetairoa McMillan #4 of the Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-549100"></figure><figcaption>Tetairoa McMillan #4 of the Carolina Panthers</figcaption></figure>



Also, rookie wideout Tet McMillan has done great things in his first year in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>. McMillan has 851 yards and six touchdowns this season. While the passing offense is not awesome in Carolina, McMillan is.


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<h2>The Panthers could end up doing wrong decisions if they go to the playoffs</h2>



While going to the playoffs could be one of the stories of the season, the fact is that the Panthers could definitely find themselves tricked by going into January football. More than likely that would be a one-and-done scenario, but more than that, the team could believe it’s closer to big success and get unnecessarily aggressive in the offseason. Only time will tell us whether this season really is the start of something bigger.

What happens if Panthers lose against Bucs today in Week 16 of 2025 NFL season?

What happens if Panthers lose against Bucs today in Week 16 of 2025 NFL season? - Bolavip US

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The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> (7-7) are set to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7) for the first time this season. Both teams are in a fierce race to win the NFC South title, but they have missed several opportunities to take the lead.&nbsp;



Sunday’s duel could be the turning point in this race, as the Panthers’ chances to advance to the playoffs would drop to 5% with a loss, while the Buccaneers’ chances would go up to 95% with a win. Carolina has shown a better face in 2025, with Bryce Young showing glimpses of brilliance.&nbsp;



However, the third-year quarterback has lacked consistency, struggling to rise up in the big moments and letting his team down more than once. They will face Baker Mayfield, who spent the first part of the 2022 season.&nbsp;



<h2>Panthers OT sends clear message to Baker Mayfield</h2>



The former No. 1 pick still keeps good relationships from his time with Carolina, but some aren’t too happy to see him shine with the Buccaneers. Offensive tackle Taylor Moton said positive things about Mayfield ahead of Sunday’s game, but clarified that watching him on the Buccaneers doesn’t sit too well with him.



<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_20251221_BUS_549152_baker-mayfield-1_8e485109.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Baker Mayfield Buccaneers QB" class="wp-image-534321"></figure><figcaption>Baker Mayfield #6 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.</figcaption></figure>



“He’s a great dude,” Moton said, via Joe Person of The Athletic. “Obviously, this is a different kind of week for me with him. It’s bittersweet because I love him and I’m so happy to see he’s having success. I just hate it’s for a divisional rival.”



Mayfield played seven games in Carolina, going 119 of 206 for 1,313 yards and six touchdowns. He’s elevated his level since that season, becoming one of the most entertaining quarterbacks in the NFL.&nbsp;

Panthers OT shares feelings on facing former teammate Baker Mayfield

Panthers OT shares feelings on facing former teammate Baker Mayfield - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> have summed up perfectly the state of the NFC South this season. They have been inconsistent all season long, securing big wins against the Dallas Cowboys (30-27 in Week 6), the Green Bay Packers (16-13 in Week 9), and the Los Angeles Rams (31-28 in Week 13) one day, but failing to move past the 4-10 New Orleans Saints not once but twice.&nbsp;



They lost to the Saints 21-17 on Sunday, falling to 7-7 and failing to drift away from another inconsistent team, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-7). These two squads will clash on Sunday for the first time this season. 



With three games remaining, the Week 16 duel will be extremely important for these teams, but the Panthers face a terrible destiny if they don’t beat Baker Mayfield and Co.



<h2>Panthers will be nearly out of the NFL playoff with a Week 16 loss&nbsp;</h2>



Pro Football Focus (PFF) shared on Friday that the Panthers will have 50% playoff probabilities with a win against the Buccaneers. 



<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_20251221_BUS_549127_Bryce-Young-looks-on_9704fe7c.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young looks on" class="wp-image-515607" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers enters the field.</figcaption></figure>



While that number isn’t that high, the situation will drastically change if they lose. Carolina would have 5% chances of advancing to the postseason with a loss.&nbsp;



The Buccaneers face a more positive scenario. If they win, their chances go up to 95%. If they lose, they will have the same chances as the Panthers (50%). Carolina will face a tough opponent in Week 17, the Seattle Seahawks (12-3), before closing out the season with the second matchup against the Buccaneers.&nbsp;

Panthers face grim destiny if they fall against Buccaneers

Panthers face grim destiny if they fall against Buccaneers - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-buccaneers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> are facing the Carolina Panthers in Week 16 and it’s one of the most intriguing matchups because of how important it is. Hence, the question of what happens if they lose this game?



Right now, the Buccaneers have a 78% chance of going to the playoffs. If they lose today against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a>, their playoff probability drops all the way to 57%. Them being battling for the NFC South title makes this a key game for both franchises.



If the Bucs end up losing to the Panthers, then Carolina’s chances to go to the playoffs immediately boost from 22% to 43%. The fact is that with a win, the Panthers could get in prime position to win the division.



<h2>The Panthers missed a golden opportunity last week</h2>



Last week, the Panthers had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the NFC South. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost to the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday Night Football. That opened the way for Carolina to beat the easy New Orleans Saints and take the lead of the division. However, it got swept by the Saints and that puts the team in some sort of trouble.



<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_20251221_BUS_549011_Bryce-Young-quarterback-of-the-Carolina-Panthers-1_3069e5a5.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young, quarterback of the Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-267883" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young, quarterback of the Carolina Panthers</figcaption></figure>



The Saints are one of the worst teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>, yet they still beat the Panthers in both games this season. That might cost them the chance to get into the playoffs when it’s all said and done. Now, to erase that mistake, they need to beat the Bucs.


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<h2>Tampa Bay must revamp its offense</h2>



The Bucs have gotten too many injuries on the roster and that has harmed their production, especially on offense. However, they are now healthy. Receivers Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Jalen McMillan, and Emeka Egbuka all dealt with injuries this season, but they are all now healthy and ready to roll.



Also, the running back star, Bucky Irving, also dealt with an injury that sidelined him for weeks, but he is also back. Therefore, the Buccaneers should have one of the most explosive offensive units for the remainder of the season.

What happens if Buccaneers lose today to Panthers in 2025 NFL Week 16?

What happens if Buccaneers lose today to Panthers in 2025 NFL Week 16? - Bolavip US

The early days of the Bryce Young era were a tough watch. It seemed that the <a href="http://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> had been fleeced and had made a terrible mistake with that trade.



Fast forward to today, and they’re having their best season in quite a while. And while there have been some ups and downs, their quarterback has looked solid lately, especially in clutch situations.



The eye test may not be that impressive, and he clearly still has some work to do. Nevertheless, the numbers show that he’s actually been getting better and better with more reps.



<h2>Bryce Young is trending in the right direction</h2>



“Quarterback Bryce Young (64.7 grade; 30th) has been playing excellent football over the last month: His 74.1 overall PFF grade since Week 10 is 10th among quarterbacks, and his 5.2% big-time throw rate is ninth,” PFF’s Thomas Valentine wrote. “If Young can keep playing stellar ball, the Panthers might sneak into the playoffs as division winners — something they haven’t done since 2015.”



<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_20251211_BUS_543572_Bryce-Young-7_454ed15d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-358866" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers</figcaption></figure>



Of course, that’s a big if, and the Panthers don’t control their own destiny in the division right now. But given how the Buccaneers have struggled, it’s definitely not out of the question.



His game might not be as flashy, and he doesn’t do a lot of talking. Then again, Bryce Young has taken some big leaps since his terrible rookie season, and he might turn out to be just fine.

Stats prove Bryce Young has been better than the eye test shows

Stats prove Bryce Young has been better than the eye test shows - Bolavip US

Not many people thought the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> would be a competitive team in the 2025 NFL season. Their defense had potential, but there were major doubts about Bryce Young.



The former No. 1 pick has been inconsistent, but as low as the lows have been, the highs have been pretty high as well. Moreover, he’s proven to have that clutch gene.



Also, with the NFC South being one of the worst divisions in football and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers struggling, the divisional pennant is up for the taking right now. And the Panthers can clinch a playoff spot as soon as Sunday.



<h2>The Panthers’ path to the playoffs is clear</h2>



With that in mind, Panthers analyst Edgar Salmingo Jr. took to social media to show the team’s potential path to the postseason this weekend. Surprisingly, it’s actually quite feasible:



<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_20251209_BUS_542159_bryce-young-panthers_250df2f9.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young wants to have a great third year in the NFL" class="wp-image-417692" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers at training camp.</figcaption></figure>



“The Panthers can clinch a postseason spot next Sunday if the following happens, according to the ESPN <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> Playoff Machine: ATL beats TB, CAR beats NO, CAR beats TB. Even if TB wins their last 2 games and CAR loses their last 2, they’re both 9-8 and Carolina owns the tiebreaker,” Salmingo wrote. 



Of course, at the end of the day, it will all depend on whether the Panthers can get the job done as well. And while they haven’t been in this position in quite a while, it looks like they will be just fine.

NFL clinching scenarios: How the Panthers can make the playoffs on Sunday?

NFL clinching scenarios: How the Panthers can make the playoffs on Sunday? - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers</a> star quarterback Bryce Young delivered one of his best performances since entering the NFL two years ago. The third-year quarterback led the Panthers to a huge 31-28 upset over the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13 of the 2025 season.&nbsp;



Young finished 15 of 20 for 206 yards and three touchdowns with two sacks. The Panthers improved to 7-6 and confirmed they aren’t dead in the race for the NFC South.&nbsp;



Young’s performance earned him a lot of attention, more so given the caliber of the team he beat. The Panthers need to build on this win, but Young appears to be on the right path.



<h2>Bryce Young gets high praise after beating Rams&nbsp;</h2>



Fox Sports analyst Eric Williams lauded Young on his Thursday’s NFL Heat Index. The analyst praised the quarterback and noted that the Panthers can pose a big challenge to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.&nbsp;



<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_20251205_BUS_540126_bryce-young-1_4d44eb2a.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young Panthers" class="wp-image-519594" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers.</figcaption></figure>



“The Alabama product was solid in his team’s upset win at home over the Los Angeles Rams, finishing 15 of 20 for 206 yards, with three touchdown passes and no interceptions for a 147.1 passer rating,” Williams wrote. “Panthers head coach Dave Caneles has done a nice job of creating an offense that accentuates Young’s skill set, leaning on a running game led by Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle. At 7-6, the Panthers have a chance to challenge the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC South. And Young’s efficient play in leading the offense gives Carolina a chance to win each week.”



They will face the New Orleans Saints on Week 15, hoping to get revenge on their divisional rivals and secure their eighth win of the season.&nbsp;

Bryce Young gets approval stamp after win over Rams

Bryce Young gets approval stamp after win over Rams - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers </a>pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the 2025 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a> season with a 31-28 win over the 9-3 Los Angeles Rams. When everybody predicted an easy win for the best team in the league, the Panthers shocked the world.&nbsp;



Bryce Young led the way by going 15 of 20 for 206 yards and three touchdowns to give his team its seventh win of the season. The Panthers remain in competition for the NFC South division title, but their inconsistency makes it hard for people to believe they can keep up with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.&nbsp;



More than that, an analyst made a grim prediction about how the season would end for Carolina.&nbsp;



<h2>Panthers predicted to lose most of their remaining games</h2>



With four games left to play, the Panthers have a serious chance to dethrone the Buccaneers, but not everybody is convinced they can do so. Bleacher Report writer Brad Gagnon predicts that the Panthers will win only one of their next four games.&nbsp;&nbsp;



<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_20251204_BUS_538869_bryce-young_4cef7af0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young" class="wp-image-511973" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers.</figcaption></figure>



“Nobody here is good, but the Bucs win out in terms of the current loss column as well as overall talent and experience,” Gagnon wrote. “They should be able to finally put the Panthers away with two head-to-head matchups in the final three weeks of the season, and outside of that, they face three losing teams in New Orleans, Atlanta and Miami. They’ll be fine.”



“Each of Carolina’s last six wins has come by one score (five of them by a field goal), but there’s a good chance a team that is realistically mediocre on both sides of the ball finally hits a wall with Tampa Bay, Seattle, Tampa Bay in Weeks 16, 17 and 18, respectively,” he added.



After returning from the bye week, they will clash with the New Orleans Saints, the Buccaneers twice, and the Seattle Seahawks. It’s easy to see why Gagnon doesn’t have hope for the Panthers.&nbsp;

Panthers get grim prediction for final four games

Panthers get grim prediction for final four games - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-rams" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Los Angeles Rams</a> are one of the best teams in the NFL. That’s why everyone got shocked when the Carolina Panthers surprisingly beat them. After the game, a Matthew Stafford teammate opened up about the loss.



Linebacker Byron Young said, “I&nbsp;just feel like this&nbsp;a wake-up call. You know, something that you just got to learn from. I definitely think it’s something that we needed. I don’t look at as a bad thing. I just look at it that it is motivation. It is something I’m glad that it happened. We need this.”



The loss cost the Rams the no.1 seed in the NFC. Now, the team sees the Bears as the first seed in the conference. Now the Rams must catch up once again despite being one of the best teams in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a>.



<h2>Stafford’s streak also came to a dramatic end</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/matthew-stafford" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Matthew Stafford</a> threw 28 touchdowns without throwing a pick. Then, the frisky Panthers’ defense struck and intercepted Stafford twice. One of those picks was in the endzone. That took six points off the Rams and that could’ve made the difference between winning and losing the game.



<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_20251201_BUS_537427_Matthew-Stafford-5_3a6c1339.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams" class="wp-image-268977" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Matthew Stafford #9 of the Los Angeles Rams </figcaption></figure>



While Stafford still threw for two touchdowns (both to Davante Adams), the Rams fell just short of winning the game. Also, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/seattle-seahawks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seahawks</a> and 49ers won, putting them pressure on the divisional level. While the Rams still lead in the NFC West, their margin of error has disappeared.


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<h2>The Rams will have a divisional bounceback spot</h2>



To rebound from the loss to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Panthers</a>, the Rams will face the 3-9 Cardinals, who are riding a four-game losing streak. However, it’s a divisional rival, so it might be a tough game.



In fact, this is a frisky team. The last two games that the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/arizona-cardinals" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cardinals</a> lost where by three points each. They will put up a battle for sure. The Rams will have to make sure they don’t drop consecutive games.

Rams star, not Matthew Stafford, gets brutally honest after ‘humbling’ loss to the Panthers

Rams star, not Matthew Stafford, gets brutally honest after 'humbling' loss to the Panthers - Bolavip US

The Carolina Panthers couldn’t get things going against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday. They lost 20-9 against the NFC West franchise at Levi’s Stadium, dropping to 6-6 and missing out on a big chance to become the leaders of the NFC South division.



Quarterback Bryce Young went 18 of 29 for 169 yards and one touchdown with two interceptions. Running back Rico Dowdle failed to make an impact, carrying the ball six times for 38 yards. Dowdle tweeted a confused emoji to express his disappointment with the development of the game.



Dowdle’s social media action drew a lot of attention, with people wondering if that could result in a big issue for the Panthers. The former Dallas Cowboys player revealed Dave Canales took ownership for not relying on the running game during the 49ers game, but that wasn’t the end of the conversation.



<h2>Bryce Young reacts to Rico Dowdle’s emoji</h2>



Young shared his thoughts on Dowdle’s social media activity, saying that everybody on the team is focused on the same goal and they are working to achieve it.



<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_20251129_BUS_535382_rico-dowdle-1_8696abda.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Rico Dowdle #5 of the Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-515259" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Rico Dowdle #5 of the Carolina Panthers</figcaption></figure>



“Yeah, [the conversation] wasn’t about that specifically. Rico is competitive and obviously wants to win,” Young said. “We always want to win. We didn’t get that done. We all have a competitive spirit. We talked about the game and the game plan, and stuff like that is in-house. We don’t discuss that on social media, so that’ll be our focus.”



The Panthers still have chances to win the NFC South, but they need to win games with consistency. They will clash against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.&nbsp;

Bryce Young breaks silence on Rico Dowdle’s cryptic message

Bryce Young breaks silence on Rico Dowdle's cryptic message - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a> lost to the San Francisco 49ers on Monday, dropping to 6-6 and missing out on a big opportunity to surpass the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the NFC South division leaders.



Bryce Young went 18 of 29 for 169 yards and one touchdown with two interceptions and one sack. The third-year quarterback, and the offense in general, couldn’t get going against a 49ers team that was more effective on offense.



The challenge will be harder in Week 13. The Panthers will visit the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13. Fresh off a commanding 34-7 win over the Buccaneers, Matthew Stafford and Co. will try to extend their winning streak to seven games. The Panthers, on the other side, must be extra careful not to make the same mistakes they made against the 49ers.



<h2>ESPN writer warns Panthers about costly mistakes</h2>



On Wednesday, ESPN’s David Newton noted that the Panthers made a mistake that may have changed the development of the game. Down 7-0 in the first quarter, Carolina had a first-and-goal from the Panthers’ 1. They attempted a pass to tight end Mitchell Evans that was picked off instead of rushing the ball. Newton warned that they can’t do the same against the Rams.



<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_20251127_BUS_534234_Bryce-Young-quarterback-for-the-Carolina-Panthers-1_89014b94.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Bryce Young, quarterback for the Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-301098" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Bryce Young, quarterback for the Carolina Panthers</figcaption></figure>



“They now face their biggest task of the season in the Rams, who have won six straight with an average of 30.5 points per game,” Newton wrote. “The Panthers can’t afford to turn the ball over against the Rams like they did on that first-and-goal play Monday.”



Carolina missed the chance to lead the NFC South for the first time at this point of the season since 2017. They are still alive in the race, but they need to be consistent and cash in on the opportunities the Buccaneers give them.&nbsp;

Panthers reporter warns against repeating costly mistake during 49ers game

Panthers reporter warns against repeating costly mistake during 49ers game - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carolina Panthers </a>couldn’t move past the San Francisco 49ers on Monday, despite intercepting Brock Purdy three times. The NFC South team dropped to 6-6 after losing a game that would have put them first in the division standings.



Bryce Young finished 18 of 29 for 169 yards and one touchdown with two interceptions and one sack. They are still in contention to win the division, but they must be consistent to achieve the goal. The challenge will be tougher in Week 13, when they face the Los Angeles Rams.



After that, they will play three divisional games, including two against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which could define the NFC South division winner. They are still competitive, but their forces might not be enough down the stretch.



<h2>Panthers’ injury could derail their playoff plans</h2>



Besides Young’s performance, injuries prevented the Panthers from cashing in on Purdy’s off night. Bleacher Report’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> staff believes they will continue to hurt the team’s chances to succeed down the stretch.



<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_20251126_BUS_534088_Dave-The-Canal-Canales_1484d291.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Head coach Dave Canales of the Carolina Panthers" class="wp-image-481054" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Dave Canales of the Carolina Panthers</figcaption></figure>



“In the early goings [of MNF], it felt like Carolina might pull off the upset. Then, cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Cory Thornton left the game with injuries, and San Francisco started to pull away,” they wrote. “The Panthers were already without linebackers Trevin Wallace and Christian Rozeboom, who were inactive. Up next are the white-hot Los Angeles Rams, and if the Carolina defense isn’t significantly healthier, it can pretty much forget about catching Tampa before its Week 14 bye.”



At 6-6, the Panthers can still succeed. They aren’t competing in a strong division, but the lack of consistency doesn’t only affect their opponents. They need to win as many games as possible to return to the postseason.&nbsp;

Crucial factor might keep Panthers away from playoffs

Crucial factor might keep Panthers away from playoffs - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brock-purdy">Brock Purdy</a> didn’t hide from the moment after throwing three interceptions in a rough first half against the Carolina Panthers. Asked if the turnovers shook his confidence, Purdy admitted the pressure is real, saying, “When you turn the ball over three drives in a row, you feel the pressure. This is why we are put in this position. I can handle this.”



He emphasized that quarterbacks can’t afford to crumble when things spiral. “You can’t lose confidence in yourself. You can’t shrivel back and take a bunch of checkdowns and stuff,” Purdy said, pointing out that staying aggressive and reading out plays is part of the job, even in the middle of a meltdown.



Despite the performance, Purdy insisted he’s built to rebound. He acknowledged the frustration, “Obviously, I don’t want to have that kind of performance. I’m an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> quarterback,” but made it clear he’s already focused on responding the right way. “It’s all about how you prepare and move onto the next,” he said, framing the night as a test he plans to overcome.



<h2>Purdy’s worst game of the year</h2>



It’s true that Purdy has been injured for nearly half the season and is only now getting back with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-francisco-49ers">49ers</a>, but the matchup against the Panthers stands as his worst of the year in terms of interceptions. His 193 passing yards were also his lowest total of the season so far.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Brock Purdy was asked if the interceptions affected his confidence: “It’s tough. Mentality as a quarterback, you want to play aggressive, you want to take what the defense gives you, but when you turn the ball over three drives in a row, you feel the pressure. This is why we are… <a href="https://t.co/eqMsTIWOhI">pic.twitter.com/eqMsTIWOhI</a>— Coach Yac 🗣 (@Coach_Yac) <a href="https://twitter.com/Coach_Yac/status/1993190436219818146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



Those interceptions against Carolina also put him in an unwanted category for the current season. “Brock Purdy is the first QB this season to throw 3 INT in the first half of a game,” ESPN reported through its X account.


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<h2>Mac Jones a bit better than Purdy</h2>



Purdy has thrown seven interceptions on just 122 attempts, a sharp contrast to Mac Jones, who has six picks on 289 attempts this season. Despite his struggles, Jones hasn’t had a three-interception game since 2022, highlighting how unusual Purdy’s recent turnover surge truly is.

Brock Purdy breaks silence on his interception meltdown during 49ers–Panthers

Brock Purdy breaks silence on his interception meltdown during 49ers–Panthers - Bolavip US

Jaycee Horn played a crucial role against the 49ers, picking off <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brock-purdy">Brock Purdy</a> twice and visibly rattling the San Francisco quarterback. But despite his big night, the Carolina Panthers cornerback was unable to return to the game due to a injury.



Both ESPN and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nfl">NFL</a> reported the same update during the broadcast. Horn was officially ruled out with a concussion after he was already seen struggling on the sideline. “Panthers CB Jaycee Horn being evaluated for a concussion; ESPN’s Lisa Salters said Horn was vomiting on the sideline after his second INT,” was one of the first reports shared by Cam Inman.



Horn has recorded five interceptions so far this season. The fact that he was unable to return in a game, such as the one against the 49ers, is highly worrying for Panthers fans, as the absence of a cornerback of his caliber leaves a significant hole in that area of the field.



<h2>Who could replace Jaycee Horn?</h2>



The most viable option on the depth chart was Corey Thornton, who was also listed as questionable during the game against the 49ers due to a hard hit. Now, the Panthers must figure out their plan for Week 13 against the Rams.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Ed Reed’s somewhere smiling proudly at this Jaycee Horn INT 🔥🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panthers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panthers</a> <a href="https://t.co/IH88wf3nfE">pic.twitter.com/IH88wf3nfE</a>— ⟁⟁⟁ (@fsh733) <a href="https://twitter.com/fsh733/status/1993139288805159278?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



The Panthers’ 6-6 record does not afford them the luxury of losing players, especially on defense. This is particularly true after a game where they managed to intercept Purdy three times but failed to capitalize on those turnovers for touchdowns or more points, making them essentially a waste of opportunity.


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<h2>The Panthers’ final five games</h2>



The season is nearing its end for the Panthers. They must not only play the Rams as part of the final five games of the year but also face the Saints, Buccaneers, and Seahawks, with two of those matchups coming against Tampa Bay (one at home and one in Florida).

Panthers injury alarm: Why Jaycee Horn never returned after picking off Brock Purdy twice?

Panthers injury alarm: Why Jaycee Horn never returned after picking off Brock Purdy twice? - Bolavip US

If there’s one team in the NFL that’s truly the surprise this season, it’s the Carolina Panthers. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/bryce-young">Bryce Young</a>’s squad has endured turbulent years in the league, making their current record put them within striking distance of claiming the NFC South, with several games still to play.



Much of this growth in recent weeks has come from the offensive firepower of Dave Canales’ team, particularly with the ground contribution of Rico Dowdle. The running back has emerged as one of the most targeted players by the QB this season.



The former Cowboys player will become a free agent once this season concludes, leaving his future uncertain. In recent statements to the press, Dowdle said that this season is a kind of “audition” for him.



“Every week is an audition for me, being on a one-year contract,” Dowdle told reporters, per David Newton. “All 31 teams are always watching. So I wouldn’t say just this week in particular but I definitely know I’ve got to go out there and do my best.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Running back Rico Dowdle says every game is an audition for him since he’s on a one-year deal with the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panthers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panthers</a>. <a href="https://t.co/8fZtk9MqKI">pic.twitter.com/8fZtk9MqKI</a>— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) <a href="https://twitter.com/DNewtonespn/status/1991970855593582831?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<h2>Dowdle’s influence on the Panthers’ offense</h2>



Running back Rico Dowdle has unexpectedly become the focal point of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-panthers">Carolina Panthers</a>‘ offense this season, providing a much-needed jolt to the running game. 


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Through 11 games, the veteran back has amassed 833 rushing yards on 168 carries, averaging a strong 5.0 yards per attempt, and has scored five total touchdowns. 



His consistent production, which includes a massive 206-yard rushing performance in a breakout game, has solidified his role as the team’s primary ball-carrier, injecting an element of dynamism and reliability that the Panthers’ attack desperately needed.



<h2>Will Dowdle remain a Panther next season?</h2>



Dowdle is set to cash in this offseason, as his breakout performance has positioned him as one of the top unrestricted free agents at his position. After signing a one-year deal, Dowdle, who publicly stated he views every game as an “audition,” has attracted significant league-wide attention. 



While the Panthers would undoubtedly like to retain his dynamic running ability, the presence of other contracted backs like Chuba Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks (who is returning from injury) on the roster, combined with multiple teams reportedly interested in acquiring a starting-caliber back, makes his return to Carolina a major question mark.

Bryce Young’s key weapon makes major admission about his future with the Panthers

Bryce Young’s key weapon makes major admission about his future with the Panthers - Bolavip US

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