In a tightly contested matchup, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers held off the Carolina Panthers with a final score of 20-13 in Week 12 of the 2026 season. The victory keeps the Buccaneers in the playoff hunt as they continue to build momentum late in the season. Baker Mayfield was the standout performer for Tampa Bay, throwing for 216 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to manage the game effectively. Kenny Gainwell contributed significantly on the ground with 63 rushing yards, while Chris Godwin Jr. was the top target, amassing 77 receiving yards to help secure the win. Defensively, the Buccaneers made crucial plays to keep the Panthers at bay, highlighted by Zyon McCollum’s interception that shifted the momentum in Tampa Bay's favor. Although the Panthers' Jaycee Horn was strong with eight tackles, and Nic Scourton recorded two sacks, it was Tampa Bay's ability to capitalize on key defensive moments that ultimately determined the outcome of the game.