Buccaneers vs Panthers: Week 16 NFL Betting Predictions and Top Picks
The NFC South showdown between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers will take place this afternoon at Bank of America Stadium. Both teams are vying for dominance in a closely contested division. Tampa Bay quarterback Baker Mayfield is expected to be a key player in this matchup, especially now that he has a fully healthy receiving corps at his disposal.
Buccaneers vs Panthers Predictions
Experts predict that Baker Mayfield will exceed 228.5 passing yards in this game. Mayfield has recently demonstrated strong performances, throwing for 277 yards in his last outing, with a noteworthy average of 8.8 yards per attempt. The matchup against the Panthers presents a favorable opportunity, given their recent struggles in pass defense.
Key Statistics
- Baker Mayfield’s recent performance: 277 passing yards last game; averages 8.8 yards per attempt.
- Panthers pass defense ranking: 24th in pass defense DVOA; allowed 68.9% completion rate in past two games.
- Quarterback pressure: Panthers generate pressure at the second-lowest rate in the NFL.
Game Analysis
The Buccaneers stand out in both offensive and defensive categories. They rank significantly higher than the Panthers, not only in DVOA but also in EPA per play. With Baker Mayfield’s improving form and a weaker opposition defense, the Buccaneers are poised for success.
Noteworthy Offensive Strategies
- Sean Tucker: Targeted for an anytime touchdown after scoring across the last six games.
- Panthers rushing attack: Expected to struggle against a Buccaneers defense ranked 10th in rush defense DVOA.
Betting Odds and Trends
Here are the current betting odds for the Buccaneers vs. Panthers game:
| Outcome | Odds |
|---|---|
| Bucs Spread | -3 |
| Panthers Spread | +3 |
| Bucs Moneyline | -158 |
| Panthers Moneyline | +134 |
| Over/Under | 45.5 |
Recent trends indicate that the Buccaneers have successfully exceeded the point total in 13 of their last 21 games. This indicates a promising opportunity to bet on the Over in today’s matchup.
How to Watch
Fans can catch the action live from Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on FOX.
As both teams look to make their mark in the NFC South, the Buccaneers are favored to secure a crucial victory. Mayfield’s performance will be a decisive factor in the outcome of this pivotal game.
