Panthers @ Bucs Prediction

It's time for a NFC SOUTH showdown. The Carolina Panthers travel down to the Sunshine State to take on the Buccaneers. This is a very important game for Carolina, wheich a potential to create another three way tie for #1 in the NFC South with a Panthers loss, Bucs win, and a Falcons win.

Tampa Bay's QB, Brian Griese, left with a right elbow injury against Denver. This makes Grieses questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina. If Griese where able to play his stats are very close to Jake Delhommes. So far this season, Brian Griese attempteda total of 147 passes while completing 84, threw for a total of 804 yards with 4 TDs. Jake Delhomme has attempted 142 yards completing 86. Delhomme has a grand total of 1096 yards for 5 TDs which is bette than Griese. If Griese isn't able to suit up then bring on Jeff Garcia who has staggering 58 attempts for passing with 37 complete. He also has a total of 314 yards with 2 TDs.

Advantage: Carolina

The Rushing game for Tampa Bay is split between Earnest Graham who had 67 carries for a total of 393 yards with 2 TDs and Warrick Dunn had 53 carries for a total of 271 yards with 1 TD. Carolina, on the other hand, has DeAngelo Williams rushing for 75 carries and 324 yards with 2 TDs and Jonathan Stewart carrying 64 times for 269 yards with 4 TDs. Both teams have similar yards and average carries while Carolina produces more TDs which is the goal.

Advantage: Carolina

Last but not least, let's talk receiving. The Bucs have Antonio Bryant who recorded 24 receptions for a total of 278 yards with 0 TDs. Then you have Ike Hilliard who has 22 receptions so far for 193 yards and 3 TDs. Carolina's Mushin Muhammad has 25 receptions for 358 yards with 2 TDs. Then there's Steve Smith with 16 receptions for 262 yards and 1 TD. While both Carolina and Tamp Bay have the same amount of TDs total, the ball is spread out better for the Panthers. If something were to happen to Ike Hilliard then Tampa Bay is out of production and Antonio Bryant would really have to step up. Carolina also has more reception yards total so there is more production coming from the Panthers receiving duo.

Advantage: Carolina

I'm sure by now everyone knows I'm a Panthers fan and for good reason this year. The team is really coming together after the return of Jake Delhomme. With our rotating QB situation last years it feels good to be stable. Unfortunately for Tampa Bay their QB situation is shaky.

Final Prediction: Carolina 24, Tampa Bay 17