Matchup Overview
The Panthers have far exceeded their expectations entering the season, just one win away from their first playoff berth since 2017. Two weeks ago, they defeated this same Buccaneers’ team 23-20 in huge thanks to their defense holding Baker Mayfield to just 145 passing yards. They have held opposing QBs to under 200 yards in 50% of games this season, and will need to rely on their defense again against a struggling Tampa Bay offense.
The Buccaneers started the season 5-1 and everyone thought they had the division in the bag, but now rely on some Week 18 magic to make it to the playoffs. They have currently lost 4-straight games, all against teams without a winning record. Even with a win on Saturday, they will need to root for the Falcons to lose on Sunday.
BTA’s Markets/Props To Watch
| Player/Team | Line | BTA Sports Projection |
| Bucky Irving | Over 59.5 Rushing Yards | 66.33% Chance |
| Chris Godwin | Over 3.5 Receptions | 56.27% Chance |
| CAR @ TB | Under 43.5 Total Points | 52.16% Chance |
1. Bucky Irving Over 59.5 Rushing Yards
Bucky Irving ran for 71 yards in Week 16’s loss to the Panthers. He has rushed for 60+ yards in 6 of his last 8 games. Our model gives Irving a 66.33% chance of rushing for 60+ yards on Saturday.
2. Chris Godwin Over 3.5 Receptions
Even with all the weapons Tampa Bay’s offense has, Chris Godwin has been a consistent WR2. He has 4+ catches in each of his last 4 games, while averaging 6.25 targets. Our model gives Godwin a 56.27% chance of recording 4+ receptions on Saturday.
3. Under 43.5 Total Points
The line for this game is set exactly at Week 16’s final score (43), but our model leans towards the under based on how these teams have performed over the past few weeks. The Bucs have failed to score more than 20 points in 5 of their last 6 games, while the Panthers have had 3-straight games go under the listed totaI. Our model gives this game a 52.16% chance of being under 43.5 total points.
