The Buccaneers’ playoff hopes are still alive, but they need a win against the Carolina Panthers on Saturday to keep their season alive. The game is a winner-take-all showdown, with the NFC South title and a playoff berth on the line. If the Buccaneers win and the Falcons lose, they’ll clinch the division title and secure a postseason spot. However, if they lose, their season will end immediately.
The Bucs dropped a 23-20 decision to the Panthers two weeks ago, and now they need a rematch win to keep their playoff dreams alive – that’s if the Saints can handle the Falcons the next day. Tampa Bay’s been healthy lately, and they’re about to get a big boost on defense with a key player returning for the season finale.
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Todd Bowles met with the media on Thursday and dropped some good news – defensive tackle Calijah Kancey is looking good for Saturday’s game. Kancey, who’s missed 15 games, could be just what the Bucs need to take on Bryce Young and the Panthers. Kancey’s return would require the Bucs to make a corresponding roster move.
Kancey, the Buccaneers’ 2023 first-round draft pick, is looking to make a comeback after tearing his pectoral muscle in Week 2. He’s been cleared to practice and is listed as questionable for Saturday’s game against the Panthers, giving the Bucs’ defense a much-needed boost.
“He’s definitely in play,” Bowles stated via ESPN’s Jenna Laine. “Obviously we’d have to make some [roster] moves to get there to make that happen. He had a good week. … He had a very good two weeks. … If he plays, he’ll definitely be on a snap count.”
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Kancey tore his pec in Week 2 against the Texans and was initially thought to be done for the year – but he’s defied expectations and appears set to return for the Bucs’ season finale.
The Buccaneers host the Panthers at Raymond James Stadium Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
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