Bucs make history with third consecutive NFC South title
It certainly wasn't easy, but the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won its third consecutive NFC South title by beating the Carolina Panthers, 9-0. Tampa Bay had never won the division three times in a row before Sunday's contest. Hell, they hadn't even pulled it off twice in a single consecutive manner before 2022. The last four years, […]
It certainly wasn't easy, but the Tampa Bay Buccaneers won its third consecutive NFC South title by beating the Carolina Panthers, 9-0.
Tampa Bay had never won the division three times in a row before Sunday's contest. Hell, they hadn't even pulled it off twice in a single consecutive manner before 2022. The last four years, which include the franchise's second Super Bowl in and three division titles, is easily the team's most successful four-year run of all-time.
The Panthers didn't back down in this game and honestly, the Bucs probably don't win this game without the heroic efforts of Antoine Winfield Jr. The star safety -and most recent Pro Bowl snub- prevented a touchdown on a hustle play by forcing a fumble at the goal line. Cornerback Jamel Dean recovered the ball and the Bucs took over at their own 20.
Panthers wideout, DJ Chark, caught a wide-open pass and then took off down the left sideline. It looked to be an easy touchdown, but Winfield Jr., who is known for his relentless hustle, came flying up and knocked the ball out of Chark's hands right before he crossed the goal line.
That wasn't his only big moment, either. Later in the third quarter, the Bucs were up by six points and the Panthers were able to drive into field goal range. A field goal would've cut the lead to three points and that would've put more pressure on an already-struggling Tampa Bay offense.
But, Winfield Jr. came through with a huge sack on 3rd down that forced the Panthers into a 52-yard field goal attempt, as opposed to the easier attempt that was on deck before the sack. Matthew Wright's kick sailed wide left and Carolina came away with zero points.
To make things even better, the Bucs started the subsequent drive at the Panther 43 and the good field position allowed them to kick the third field goal to go up by two possessions, essentially icing the game.
It was yet another incredible performance from the fourth-year safety, who easily had the best year of his career in 2023. He should be a foundational piece on this defense for years to come.
One has to tip their cap to Bucs head coach Todd Bowles, as well. Sure, it was an up-and-down year and he still has a lot to prove, but to make the playoffs within the context of the Bucs' offseason is awfully impressive. Even if the NFC South isn't the most competitive of divisions.
It's still unclear as to which team Tampa plays in the Wild Card Round, but this season has certainly been one to remember and it's great to see the Bucs finish it the right way.
