Buccaneers Start NFC South Push Against Panthers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winless through six games at 1-5, begin their NFC South divisional schedule Sunday at the Carolina Panthers (3-2), trailing by just 2.5 games despite their poor record. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield returns from a dislocated thumb as Carolina's Bryce Young has emerged as an early MVP contender, ranking sixth in passing yards and tied for seventh in touchdowns. Tampa Bay's defense ranks second against the run and fourth in total yards allowed, keeping their five losses within an average 5.4-point margin.