Panthers fans flipping out in Tampa with NFC South title on the line

6 days ago 2

TAMPA, Fla. (CAROLINA SPORTS LIVE) — The Panthers may be three states away for their pivotal Week 18 showdown, but their fans still made the trek to Tampa to witness the potential clinching of a playoff berth.

The CSL crew first witnessed fans at Charlotte Douglas Friday afternoon preparing to fly to the Sunshine State. Then at night, a waterfront bar near downtown Tampa was full of black-and-blue clad patrons.

The Panthers (8-8) kick off against the Bucs (7-9) Saturday at 4:30 p.m. A win means Carolina is the NFC South champs, and will have a spot in the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

A loss does not mean the season is over. The Panthers would still make the postseason if Atlanta defeats the Saints Sunday, creating a three-way tie atop the division.

Don’t be surprised to hear plenty of cheers for a Rico Dowdle touchdown or Derrick Brown sack on Saturday.