Big NFL Showdowns: Panthers vs. Bucs and Seahawks vs. 49ers

Saturday's Showdowns

Carolina Panthers vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Panthers' Quest for Division Title

• First division title since 2015
• Mixed season: wins against strong teams, losses to weaker ones
• Key Players:
• Running back Rico Dowdle: over 1,000 yards
• Rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan: impressive performances
• Areas for Improvement:
• Passing game
• Defense

Buccaneers' Struggles

• 6-2 before bye week, lost four straight games since
• Bright Spot:
• Baker Mayfield
• Weakness:
• Defense in critical situations

Seattle Seahawks vs. San Francisco 49ers

Seahawks' Dominance

• Leading league in offensive and defensive categories
• Key Players:
• Jaxon Smith-Njigba: great year
• Sam Darnold: effective
• Defense:
• Top-notch with standout seasons

49ers' Resilience

• Overcoming injuries to key players
• Key Players:
• Christian McCaffrey: standout on ground and air
• George Kittle: force despite injuries

Stakes:

• Winner secures top seed in NFC and first-round bye
• Loser plays extra game on the road

Broadcast Information

• Channels: ABC, ESPN
• Coverage: Extensive pregame and postgame
• Alternative Broadcasts: ManningCast on ESPN2