Josh Freeman sat out due to injury, and Josh Johnson started at quarterback. Buccaneers wore their throwback uniforms, and honored Jimmy Giles at halftime.
Cam Newton ran for three touchdowns (setting an NFL single-season record for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback) as the Panthers routed the Buccaneers 38–19.
WEATHER: Cloudy - 79°F. - Humidity 46% - Wind E.N.E. 13 mph Wind Chill 77°F.
BUCCANEERS: Johnson 5-45, Madu 8-25, Blount 11-19, Lumpkin 2-1, Benn 1-(-12).
BUCCANEERS: Williams 5-93, Winslow 4-41, Benn 3-46, Parker 3-26, Briscoe 1-23.
BUCCANEERS: Bowers 1.5-7.5, Clayborn 0.5-1.5.