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Bucs-Panthers: A Reviled Rivalry

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By IRA KAUFMAN

ikaufman@tampatrib.com

Published: October 10, 2008

TAMPA - Battered bodies, blocked extra points, last-minute drives ... the Bucs-Panthers series has seen it all since the NFL re-aligned in 2002 and grouped these two franchises in the NFC South. The hostilities resume Sunday when the Panthers (4-1) come to Tampa holding a one-game lead over the Bucs and Falcons in the division, boasting a five-game winning streak at Raymond James Stadium.

These two clubs simply don't like each other. Here's a look back at some of the reasons why:

Panthers 12, Bucs 9

Sept. 14, 2003

Raymond James Stadium

WHAT HAPPENED: Brad Johnson's 6-yard TD pass to Keenan McCardell on the final play of regulation tied the score, but Martin Gramatica's extra-point attempt was blocked. John Kasay's 47-yard FG handed the defending NFL champs a crushing setback.

KEY STAT: The teams combined for 33 penalties.

Panthers 27, Bucs 24

Nov. 9, 2003

Ericsson Stadium, Charlotte

WHAT HAPPENED: QB Jake Delhomme overcame Tampa Bay's comeback bid by driving the Panthers 78 yards in the final minutes, capped by a 5-yard TD pass to Steve Smith.

QUOTE: "We felt like we had the game won. All we had to do was carry out our assignments, just like we'd been doing all day. I wish I had the answers." - Bucs LB Derrick Brooks

Panthers 26, Bucs 24

Sept. 24, 2006

Raymond James Stadium

WHAT HAPPENED: After roaring back from a 17-0 deficit, the Bucs fell to 0-3 as Kasay kicked a 46-yard FG with two seconds left. Chris Simms plays almost the entire game, despite a spleen injury that required emergency surgery.

KEY STAT: No Buc WR caught more than one pass.

Bucs 20, Panthers 10

Dec. 11, 2005

Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte

WHAT HAPPENED: Rookie RB Cadillac Williams rushed for 112 yards and two TDs in this late-season showdown. Bucs CB Ronde Barber had a sack and key fourth-quarter interception.

QUOTE: "We've come a long way since last season, when we were pretty much down and out. Right now, everybody is bright-eyed and there's a whole new atmosphere. Everybody is revived." - Bucs WR Michael Clayton

Ira Kaufman

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