Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 12/3/23 – In the NFL’s Week 13 action, a struggling Carolina Panthers team with a disheartening 1-10 record visits the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are slightly better off at 4-7. This match, scheduled for Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Raymond James Stadium, is crucial for both teams, albeit for different reasons. As best betting websites churn out predictions and odds, this game stands out for its potential impact on draft positioning and team morale.
Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers 12/3/23
| When: | Sunday, December 3, 4:05 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Raymond James Stadium |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panthers | +5.5 -115 | o37 -110 | +200 |  |
| Buccaneers | -5.5 -105 | u37 -110 | -240 | |
| ||||
Setting intentions. pic.twitter.com/fkSIo2HyIG
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 29, 2023
Bryce Young QB vs Baker Mayfield QB
Bryce Young has struggled mightily in his rookie campaign for Carolina. He’s thrown for just 1683 yards with 9 touchdowns and 8 interceptions while taking 36 sacks. His 187 passing yards per game and 74.7 passer rating are among the worst in the NFL for starters. Still, his athleticism can lead to some explosive plays downfield.
Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield seems rejuvenated since taking over the starting job in Tampa. In seven starts, he’s passed for 15 touchdowns to just 5 interceptions with a 91.5 rating. Mayfield is getting superb protection and pushing the ball downfield effectively. He should torch a Panthers defense allowing the most passing yards per game this year.
Panthers’ Ground and Air Assault: Finding Consistency
Carolina’s run game has taken a step back with Christian McCaffrey’s departure. Chuba Hubbard is averaging only 40.8 yards per contest with one score. The Panthers accumulate barely 80 rushing yards per game as a team. Their nonexistent ground attack allows defenses to focus on stopping the pass.
Carolina’s top receiver Adam Thielen is a solid possession target. However, he lacks game-breaking speed at this stage of his career. The Panthers lack reliable options behind Thielen to threaten downfield. Their limited pass catchers mesh poorly with Young’s deep ball prowess. Opposing secondaries can condense coverage without fear of getting beat over the top.
Buccaneers’ Offensive Strategy: Exploiting Weaknesses
Tampa’s rushing offense trends in the opposite direction. Rookie Rachaad White has seized control of the lead back role in recent weeks. His wiggle and burst translate well behind Tampa’s mauling offensive line. White should find plenty of space against Carolina’s 31st ranked run defense conceding 157.5 yards per game.
In the passing attack, Mike Evans remains an elite outside threat. His seven scores and 16.3 yards per catch lead the team. With Chris Godwin patrolling between the hashes, Tampa has two dynamic receivers for Mayfield to target. Carolina has mustered a league-low seven interceptions this season. Expect Tampa’s aerial assault to operate efficiently throughout this contest.
NFL Betting Odds: Tampa Bay Buccaneers -240, Over/Under: 39.5
Despite Carolina’s greater desperation, the Bucs enter as heavy 6.5-point favorites. Tampa Bay owns a decisive edge at quarterback and should control this game at home. The Panthers will likely struggle to score points given their offensive limitations. Bettors can back Tampa Bay’s moneyline at a steep -240 price.
This total opened unusually low at just 39.5 points. However, Carolina is averaging a paltry 287.5 total yards per game over their last eight contests. Points could still come at a premium with two questionable offenses facing solid defenses. The under holds some value based on recent trends.
Trends
Carolina Panthers Betting Trends
Carolina are 2-7 ATS in their last 9 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Carolina’s last 5 games.
Carolina are 1-10 SU in their last 11 games.
Carolina are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games against Tampa Bay.
Panthers are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games against Tampa Bay.
Carolina are 0-6 SU in their last 6 games on the road.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Trends
Tampa Bay are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Tampa Bay’s last 9 games.
Tampa Bay are 1-6 SU in their last 7 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Tampa Bay’s last 7 games against Carolina.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay’s last 6 games at home.
Tampa Bay are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing at home against Carolina.
Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Betting Picks
Considering the teams’ performances and trends, the Buccaneers seem to have the edge, particularly at home. Their more balanced offense and slightly better defensive play should help them cover the spread. The Panthers, despite Young’s potential, have struggled to find consistency on both sides of the ball.
The over/under is a trickier proposition, given both teams’ offensive struggles. However, the Buccaneers’ offensive capability might just tip the scales towards a higher-scoring game than expected. For those interested in NFL picks and parlays, combining Tampa Bay to cover with a slightly over total might be an intriguing option.
Score Prediction: Buccaneers 30, Panthers 13
