The Carolina Panthers had a chance to clinch their first NFC South title in 10 years, but they fell short against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This loss, which came in Week 18 of the 2025 regular season, ended their campaign on a disappointing note. Despite this, the Panthers still have a shot at making the NFL playoffs, though they’ll need some outside help to get there.

Here are the standout performers and those who struggled for the Panthers in their final game of the season:

Stud: QB Bryce Young

Bryce Young had a solid performance, despite an early mistake that cost the Panthers a potential scoring opportunity. His no-zip pass to the flat was intercepted, but he quickly rebounded with several key plays in the fourth quarter. Young finished with 24 completions out of 35 attempts, throwing for 264 yards, two touchdowns, one interception, and a passer rating of 97.8.

Stud: WRs Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker

Tetairoa McMillan made a significant impact in the rain, recording four catches for 83 receiving yards. He was denied a 30-yard reception due to a questionable OPI call. His 40-yard catch set up a touchdown for Jalen Coker, who finished with six receptions for 47 yards.

Dud: RBs Rico Dowdle, Chuba Hubbard

The Panthers’ running game struggled throughout the game. Rico Dowdle’s first carry resulted in a slip and a two-yard loss, and the team never recovered. Both Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard failed to make an impact in the first half. While Dowdle had a big screen play in the fourth quarter, he also fumbled on another play. The two combined for just 18 yards on 12 carries.

Stud: TE Tommy Tremble

Tommy Tremble provided a crucial spark for the Panthers after a much-needed turnover. His eight-yard play-action catch from Young was the team’s first score of the game. Tremble added two more big receptions, totaling three catches for 38 yards.

Dud: Brad Allen crew

The officiating in the third quarter was problematic. A series of bad calls and missed opportunities hurt the Panthers’ offense, especially when they had a chance to take the lead before the final quarter.

Dud: HC Dave Canales

Head coach Dave Canales faced criticism for his play-calling. He continued to throw away first downs late in the game, even when it was clear they weren’t working. Additionally, a flea-flicker play on short field resulted in a fumble by Rico Dowdle. Canales’ decision-making and game management were questionable.

Stud: LB Christian Rozeboom

Christian Rozeboom made a critical play when the Panthers needed it most. His interception of Baker Mayfield in the second quarter led to the team’s first points of the game. This moment highlighted his potential despite a challenging season.

Duds: CB Chau Smith-Wade, LB Krys Barnes

The defensive unit struggled with tackling and coverage. Chau Smith-Wade and Krys Barnes were among the weakest links, often looking overmatched in their roles.

Stud: CB Mike Jackson

Mike Jackson provided a much-needed boost for the Panthers. His feisty tackling and a hit on Mayfield’s face-mask set the tone for the team. Jackson’s contributions were vital in keeping the Panthers in the game.

Stud: DT Derrick Brown

Derrick Brown was the standout performer on defense. Despite being snubbed from the Pro Bowl, he was dominant, posting 13 total tackles, five solo, and consistently disrupting Tampa’s backfield.

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