The Tampa Bay Buccaneers managed to embarrass themselves in Week 17, and yet they still control their playoff fate. The Bucs could have clinched the NFC South title with a win over the visiting Saints, but instead they lost 23-13 in a game they were never really in.
And yet, the Bucs will clinch the division title if they beat the Panthers this coming weekend in Charlotte. They’re six-point favorites and if they lose to the Panthers, they really don’t deserve a playoff spot. However, given how the NFC has performed, they would have a chance at a playoff berth at 8-9 if a few things fall their way.
Update — The Bucs defeated the Panthers in Week 18 to clinch the NFC South division title and a playoff berth.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers current odds
DraftKings odds: To make the playoffs — Yes , No ; NFC South -250
DVOA playoff odds: TBD
ESPN FPI: 71.7%
NY Times odds: 56%
Upcoming Schedule
Week 18: @ Panthers
The Bucs haven’t been impressive this year, but the Panthers are abysmal. I think the Bucs handle their business and clinch the division title.
Final record prediction: 9-8
Current NFC playoff standings
1. San Francisco 49ers, 12-4 — clinched NFC West
2. Dallas Cowboys, 11-5 — clinched playoff berth
3. Detroit Lions, 11-5 — clinched NFC North
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 8-8
5. Philadelphia Eagles, 11-5 — clinched playoff berth
6. Los Angeles Rams, 9-7 — clinched playoff berth
7. Seattle Seahawks, 8-8
8. New Orleans Saints, 8-8
9. Minnesota Vikings, 7-8
10. Green Bay Packers, 7-8
11. Chicago Bears, 7-9
12. Atlanta Falcons, 7-9
13. New York Giants, 5-11 — eliminated
14. Washington Commanders, 4-12 — eliminated
15. Arizona Cardinals, 4-12 — eliminated
16. Carolina Panthers, 2-13 — eliminated
Verdict
The Bucs will claim the NFC South and the No. 4 seed. If the Bucs lose to the Panthers, they could clinch the final wild card berth if the Cardinals beat the Seahawks and the Packers lose to the Bears.