Tampa Bay blew a 14-point fourth-quarter lead in a 29-28 "Thursday Night Football" loss to Atlanta last week, with a leaky defense, a Baker Mayfield interception and an ineffective running game all playing roles. Coach Todd Bowles unloaded on his team in an uncharacteristic, explicit post-game tirade.

NFL reporter Sara Walsh joins "The Insiders" to preview the critical divisional matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers with major playoff stakes on the line.

Buccaneers vs. Panthers predictions and NFL picks for Week 16. With the Bucs' receiver corps healthy, Baker Mayfield will thrive.

The Panthers have not fared well against the Buccaneers of late. Since 2020, Tampa Bay is 9-1 against Carolina, including wins in their last five. That said, Tampa Bay is just 1-5 in their last 6 games after starting the season 6-2. Since Week 10, the Bucs' defense ranks T-29th in pts/game allowed (29.3) and 30th in yds/game allowed (384.0).

Lavonte David is dealing with a knee injury, but he has taken a big step towards getting himself for the Buccaneers' Week 16 action.

Dec 7, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David (54) stands on the sidelines during the first quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images | Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Find out how to watch Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers live streaming online, plus TV channel and game info for this week 16 NFL matchup.

The Carolina Panthers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are tied for first in the NFC South entering Sunday's showdown.