Buccaneers face Panthers in crucial divisional matchup this weekend
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 20, 2026, 2:33 AM
Last updated Jul 20, 2026
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers travel to Charlotte to face the Carolina Panthers on July 23 for their first divisional matchup of the season. Both teams are coming off contrasting seasons, with the Panthers winning the NFC South in 2025 while the Buccaneers struggled, finishing 2-7. The Bucs are looking to regain the division title and job security for head coach Todd Bowles. Meanwhile, the Panthers have revamped their defense with significant signings, including linebacker Devin Lloyd and defensive end Jalen Phillips, hoping to challenge Tampa for supremacy in the NFC South.
- •Buccaneers lost the NFC South title to Panthers in 2025.
- •Tampa Bay finished last season with a 2-7 record.
- •Buccaneers play Panthers in Charlotte on July 23.
- •Panthers upgraded their defense with key free-agent signings.
- •Both teams seek early-season momentum in the division.
- 2:33 AMYahoo Sports — Pirate Problems: Buccaneers 1st Divisional Matchup is a big One
"After surrendering the NFC South crown to Carolina, Todd Bowles and the Buccaneers head to Charlotte seeking revenge and job security against a revamped, high-spending Panthers defense.
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