Panthers lose 16-14 to Buccaneers in controversial Week 18 game, with NFC South title dependent on Falcons’ win over Saints.

The Carolina Panthers lost 16-14 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a Week 18 game marred by controversial officiating, with multiple missed penalties and disputed calls drawing widespread criticism. Key moments included a face-mask hit on tight end Tommy Tremble going uncalled, a premature whistle stopping a backward pass play, and penalties on Tetairoa McMillan and Nick Scott that sparked debate. The outcome, decided by two points, now hinges on the Falcons defeating the Saints for the NFC South title via tiebreaker.