Buccaneers edge Panthers with clutch overtime field goal

In an NFC South clash on December 1, 2024, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers faced the Carolina Panthers in a tightly contested game that concluded with a thrilling overtime finish. The Buccaneers, now sporting a 6-6 record, managed to overcome a resilient Panthers team with a 26-23 victory at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. The game was marked by Chuba Hubbard’s fumble during the extra period, which allowed Tampa Bay to capitalize and secure the win. Despite a strong performance by Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, who passed for 298 yards and showcased his potential as a starter, Carolina fell short for the second consecutive week, continuing to struggle with close losses over the past few games. The match was particularly dramatic as both teams exchanged leads, with Tampa Bay initially trailing 16-10 at halftime. The Buccaneers turned to their rookie sensation, Bucky Irving, who scored a touchdown and rushed for a career-high 152 yards. His impressive performance helped Tampa Bay regain control, yet Carolina responded effectively, taking a late lead thanks to a touchdown drive led by Young. With only 30 seconds remaining, Young's efforts seemed poised to hand the Panthers a much-needed victory. However, the drama did not end there; Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, who had left the field briefly due to an injury scare, returned to deliver a clutch performance, culminating in a game-tying 51-yard field goal kick by McLaughlin. This highlighted Mayfield’s resilience as he played through adversity. When the game moved to overtime, the Panthers seemed to have an opportunity to seize the win but were thwarted by Anthony Nelson’s crucial forced fumble, leading to McLaughlin’s decisive 30-yard field goal to secure the win. This victory not only lifts the Buccaneers to a tie for the NFC South lead with the Atlanta Falcons but also serves as a missed opportunity for the Panthers, who have now fallen into a pattern of near-upsets and disappointing outcomes. Carolina has struggled to convert red-zone opportunities into touchdowns, managing only three touchdowns against six field goals in their recent outings. With the playoffs in sight for Tampa Bay, the loss signals a tough road ahead for the Panthers as they continue rebuilding under Young's leadership.