Panthers Head to Playoffs for First Time Since 2017

The Carolina Panthers are officially playoff-bound for the first time since 2017. Carolina suffered a heartbreaking 16–14 road loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Saturday, a game defined by missed opportunities, defensive grit, and a finish that left Panthers fans stunned by the refs’ total missed calls.

In what was a tightly contested NFC South matchup, the Panthers showed fight for all four quarters but ultimately fell just short against a division rival – one that capitalized when it mattered the most.

Carolina’s defense once again proved it can keep this team competitive. From the opening kickoff, the Panthers played fast and physical, limiting Tampa Bay’s big-play ability and forcing the Buccaneers to grind out yards. The defensive front applied consistent pressure, disrupting the pocket and keeping the game within reach despite extended time on the field. For long stretches, the Panthers looked more disciplined, winning key battles in the trenches and preventing Tampa Bay from pulling away.

Yet, Baker Mayfield and company kept the pressure coming on Carolina’s defense, forcing their offense to step up. Although with 266 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, and only one interception, Bryce Young couldn’t get his Panthers over the hump to solidify their status as NFC South divisional champs. In his post-game interview, he stressed how proud he is of this Panthers team and the progress they’ve made all season to even be in the position they are in.

With that loss, Carolina and Tampa were tied at 8-9, with the NFC South hanging in the balance as the Falcons-Saints game decided the division winner. The Falcons defeated New Orleans 19-17, which allowed the Panthers to win the division in a controversial fashion.