The Carolina Panthers Week 16 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will be a tough contest. This is a moment for Carolina to spoil a divisional rival's playoff positioning and could come down to the wire. We take a look at this Panthers-Buccaneers game with some of our Panthers Week 16 predictions in mind.

Carolina's defense hasn't lived up to expectations. Their youth and inexperience have proven to be a problem. Even so, the Panthers have an opportunity to shake things up in the NFC playoff rankings. Look for this defense to get aggressive, as they'll aim to bother Tom Brady all day.

The Panthers' have failed to get things going on offense, but that could all change on Sunday. For that to happen, everything needs to come together. Chuba Hubbard has the daunting task of facing the Buccaneers rush defense. A solid performance will earn him a roster spot next year. However, the passing attack will be the difference-maker. We might see Cam Newton and DJ Moore connect in the endzone more than once.

With that said, here are four bold Panthers Week 16 predictions for their game against the Buccaneers.

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Panthers Week 16 Predictions

4. Panthers defense generates 3 turnovers

Carolina has three games to generate some momentum for next year. This is a tough matchup for the Panthers, as Tom Brady and the Buccaneers have been lighting it up most of the season. Even so, this young defense will be foaming at the mouth to get after Brady and keep Tampa Bay out of the endzone.

To do that, the Panthers pass rush must attack Tom Brady aggressively. The Buccaneers are without Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, making this an opportune time to strike. If Carolina can get in Brady's face and slow down the run, they should be able to control this game.

3. Chuba Hubbard proves he deserves a long-term role in Carolina

It's just not the same without Christian McCaffrey. Even so, Chuba Hubbard has been decent throughout his rookie year. The Buccaneers are known to have a sturdy rush defense, but Hubbard will aim to break them down. If he can muster 75 rushing yards and a touchdown, he'll put the Panthers in a good spot to potentially win the game.

2. Cam Newton turns back the clock with a vintage performance

Cam Newton's return to Carolina has largely been disappointing. However, there are still three games left in the season and anything can happen. The Panthers need this victory to generate some confidence for next year and a big-time performance out of Newton could do the trick. Look for Cam Newton to get busy against Tampa Bay as he'll attempt to help his team earn a much-needed victory.

1. DJ Moore plays and reels in 100+ yards and 2 touchdowns

DJ Moore is listed as a game-time decision, so there is no guarantee he'll be on the field. However, if he does play, Moore could be in for a massive performance. The Buccaneers have a weak secondary and Moore is one of the best young receivers in the league. This is how the Panthers can exploit Tampa Bay.

Moore has flashed his talents numerous times throughout his career so far, but it hasn't generated many points for Carolina. If the Panthers hope to upset the Buccaneers, the coaching staff must dial-up DJ Moore's number early and often. This will be a tough game, but Moore is the key ingredient for Carolina to pull off a massive win on Sunday.