The Buccaneers Play Football Like it’s 1980 and Beat Carolina 43-13

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers 43-13 by adopting a heavy ground attack, running the ball 46 times. Running backs Bucky Irving and Kenneth Gainwell anchored the offense, rushing for 106 yards and 88 yards respectively. Quarterback Baker Mayfield completed 7 of 11 passes for 64 yards and a touchdown, while writer Devin Sanguinett highlighted the unit's dominant retro style of play.

Tampa Bay's defense overwhelmed Panthers quarterback Bryce Young, forcing multiple turnovers including interceptions by Zyon McCollum and Tykee Smith. Calijah Kancey returned a fumble for a touchdown, while Yaya Diaby recorded three sacks alongside contributions from Vita Vea and Al-Quadin Muhammad. Despite the victory improving Tampa Bay to 2-5, Sanguinett criticized linebacker SirVocea Dennis's coverage play.