Baker Mayfield Leads Buccaneers Over Panthers

Baker Mayfield led the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a commanding 48-14 victory over the Carolina Panthers, throwing for 359 yards and five touchdowns, marking his first five-TD game with the team and tying him for second in the league with 39 touchdowns this season. The win improved the Buccaneers' record to 9-7, keeping them in contention for the NFC South title as they await the outcome of the Falcons' game against the Commanders. Running back Bucky Irving contributed significantly, accumulating 190 yards from scrimmage, while Mike Evans caught two touchdown passes to extend his career total to 105. The Buccaneers' defense was dominant, limiting the Panthers to just 39 rushing yards and sacking quarterback Bryce Young five times. With one game remaining, Tampa Bay needs to win against the Saints and hope for a Falcons loss to clinch the division. Mayfield's performance reflects his resurgence after a challenging stint with the Panthers, who were without key players and struggled offensively throughout the game.