Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-8) vs. Carolina Panthers (2-14)
As the NFL season approaches its climax, the Week 18 showdown between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers is set to capture the attention of football enthusiasts and bettors seeking daily NFL free picks. The Buccaneers, balancing at an 8-8 record, are set to visit the struggling Panthers, who stand at a dismal 2-14, on Sunday at the Bank of America Stadium.
Tampa Bay’s offense has been an impressive blend of steady rushing and explosive receiving. Rachaad White, Tampa Bay’s mainstay runner, has amassed 915 yards on 253 attempts – showing both durability and consistency along with six touchdowns for Tampa Bay’s ground game. However, Mike Evans has truly stood out on offense – collecting 76 receptions for 1233 yards with 13 touchdowns making him one of the Buccaneers most reliable targets with big play potential and reliability.
Carolina Panthers have struggled to find their rhythm this season. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young has shown signs of potential but has been held back by an excessive sack rate and interceptions, while Chuba Hubbard’s 819 yards rushing with five touchdowns has not been enough to change the Panthers fortunes despite Adam Thielen being their reliable receiver with 101 receptions for 1002 yards; neither player alone could turn it around for them.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Bank of America Stadium |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Baker Mayfield QB vs. Bryce Young QB
Baker Mayfield has found his form since joining the Bucs this season, averaging 244 passing yards per start and posting an impressive 28-10 touchdown-INT ratio. Mayfield excels at spreading out and taking what the defense gives him while building excellent rapport with high-profile Bucs receivers such as Mike Evans while limiting turnovers. Mayfield was particularly effective with deep passes averaging 7.33 yards per attempt with 11 completions of 40+ yard completions averaging 7.32 per attempt and taking just 37 sacks total across 534 dropbacks!
Bryce Young has experienced growing pains since taking over as Panthers starting quarterback, although his arm talent and mobility have shown promise. Unfortunately, Young has completed less than 60% of his throws while averaging only 5.5 yards per attempt and throwing 10 interceptions and losing 3 fumbles so far while taking an impressive league-leading 59 sacks thus far. While Young has shown flashes when given his first read is open; overall he still needs time before reaching his full potential.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -225, Total Odds: 37.5
The Buccaneers are the favorites with a -225 moneyline and a 4.5-point spread. The total odds set at 37.5 reflect expectations of a moderately scoring game, likely influenced by the Panthers’ offensive struggles and the Buccaneers’ balanced attack.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay has shown consistency, going 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games and 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games against Carolina. Their 6-1 SU record in the last 7 games against the Panthers and 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games on the road indicates a strong away performance.
Carolina Panthers Betting Trends
Carolina, struggling this season, is 1-8 SU in their last 9 games. However, the total has gone OVER in 6 of their last 8 games against Tampa Bay, suggesting potential for higher scoring encounters. Their home record is concerning, with a 1-10 SU in their last 11 games against NFC opponents.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers 1/7/24 Betting Picks
Analyzing both teams’ performances and trends, the Buccaneers appear to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their balanced offense and consistent performance on the road make them the safer bet.
For those seeking value in betting, the Buccaneers might be the better pick, especially considering their recent ATS record. Prop bets could focus on individual player performances, like Evans’ receiving yards or Mayfield’s passing touchdowns. The over/under might lean towards the over, given the Buccaneers’ offensive capabilities. Bettors should stay updated with top live betting websites for real-time odds and opportunities.
