Sat Jan 03 21:20:00 UTC 2026: Summary:

Despite a recent slump, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers still have a chance to win the NFC South and secure a playoff spot in Week 18. Several NFC playoff seeds are already locked, but there are still seeding issues and the NFC South title to be decided. The Buccaneers’ fate depends on their game against the Carolina Panthers, as well as the outcome of the Atlanta Falcons vs. New Orleans Saints game. Other key matchups include the Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers, which will determine the NFC West winner and potentially the top seed in the conference.

News Article:

Buccaneers Still in Playoff Hunt Despite Losing Streak

TAMPA, FL – Despite a four-game losing streak and a 7-9 record, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers still control their destiny in the NFC South. The Buccaneers have a chance to clinch their fifth consecutive division title and a playoff berth in Week 18.

The division title will be decided in Tampa and Atlanta this weekend. The Buccaneers must defeat the Carolina Panthers. However, even with a win, Tampa Bay needs the New Orleans Saints to defeat the Atlanta Falcons to secure the NFC South crown.

Meanwhile, the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers face off in a crucial game that will determine the NFC West champion and could impact the top seed in the conference. The Chicago Bears and Philadelphia Eagles are also vying for higher seeds.

Six of the seven NFC playoff spots have been clinched, but the final seeding and the NFC South title remain up for grabs. The Buccaneers’ playoff fate hangs in the balance as they prepare for their Week 18 showdown against the Panthers. The stakes are high as they look to extend their playoff streak and compete for a Super Bowl title.

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