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NewsWFLA News TampaOctober 26, 2026Hillsborough County

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeat Carolina Panthers 43-13

Photo: WFLA News Tampa

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers secured a 43-13 victory over the Carolina Panthers, driven by a 258-yard rushing performance and a defense that forced five sacks and three takeaways. Quarterback Baker Mayfield returned from a thumb injury to complete seven of 11 passes for 64 yards and a touchdown, while running back Bucky Irving rushed for 106 yards and two touchdowns.

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Why It Matters

The victory marks the team's first win against an NFC South opponent this season, providing momentum ahead of a game against Atlanta on Sunday.

Key Facts

  • The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Carolina Panthers with a score of 43-13.
  • Quarterback Baker Mayfield returned from a five-game absence due to a thumb injury.
  • Mayfield completed seven of 11 passes for 64 yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions.
  • Running back Bucky Irving rushed 24 times for 106 yards and two touchdowns.
  • Bucky Irving did not play in the fourth quarter.
  • Kenny Gainwell contributed nearly 100 rushing yards, helping the team total 258 rushing yards.
  • The Buccaneers defense recorded five sacks, two interceptions, and three total takeaways.
  • Tykee Smith recorded his first interception of the season.
  • Yaya Diaby recorded a career-high three sacks.
  • The defense scored a touchdown off its performance.
  • Tampa Bay scored over 30 points in the first half and 10 points in the second quarter.
  • This was the Buccaneers' first victory against an NFC South opponent this season.

Who's Mentioned

PersonBaker Mayfield“Quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers”OrganizationCarolina Panthers“Professional football team that played against Tampa Bay”PersonZyon McCollum“Defensive back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers”PersonYaya Diaby“Defensive player for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers”PersonTykee Smith“Defensive player for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers”locationTampa“City where the game took place”PersonKenny Gainwell“Running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers”OrganizationTampa Bay Buccaneers“Professional football team that won the game”locationAtlanta“Upcoming opponent team location”PersonBucky Irving“Running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers”