From the outset, Tampa Bay made it a point of emphasis to get Bucky Irving the football in a messy, competitive, divisional game. The second-year running back saw his most carries of the season, rushing for 85 yards on 26 attempts, averaging just 3.3 yards per carry.

If the Falcons (7-9) beat the Saints, the Panthers (8-9) will secure their first division championship since coach Ron Rivera and quarterback Cam Newton led them to a 15-1 record and a Super Bowl appearance 10 years ago. “I never thought I’d see a day where I’m rooting for the Saints,” Bucs veteran linebacker Lavonte David said.

Buccaneers vs. Panthers radio coverage: Station, channel, streaming to listen live to NFL Week 18 game broadcast originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Carolina Panthers are heading to Florida to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a crucial, must-win game.

Fans can listen to Buccaneers vs. Panthers live with SiriusXM on channel 88, NFL Radio, for the national broadcast. Team-specific channels are also available, with 225 being the Bucs and 226 being the Panthers.

The Carolina Panthers, led by quarterback Bryce Young, face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, led by quarterback Baker Mayfield, on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla.

The New Orleans Saints are ending their season by visiting the Atlanta Falcons in an Week 18 game. Follow live updates.

The Bucs can clinch the NFC South in Week 18. We break down how that would work ahead of the 2026 NFL Playoffs.