Panthers remain atop NFC South after Bucs' baffling win over Falcons in Week 8

Even at their lowest point of the 2026 season, the Carolina Panthers have remained at the top of their division.

Thanks to the outcome of Sunday's matchup between the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 3-4 Panthers still have a hold on first place in the NFC South. Carolina will come out of Week 8 with a half-game lead over the 3-5 Buccaneers and 3-5 Falcons.

Tampa Bay's win, like the one they had in Week 7 against Carolina, was headlined by their relentless rushing attack. Running backs Bucky Irving and Kenny Gainwell combined for 310 yards and a touchdown on 52 carries.

Oh, and they didn't need any help from their passing game, either. Quarterback Baker Mayfield connected on zero of his three throws—which made the Bucs the first team

since 1974 to win a game without completing a pass.

Here's what the NFC South looks like heading into Week 9 . . .

1. Carolina Panthers: 3-4
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 3-5
3. Atlanta Falcons: 3-5
4. New Orleans Saints: 2-5

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers remain atop NFC South after Bucs' baffling win over Falcons in Week 8