Panthers-Bucs referee Carl Paganelli carted off after contact with Tampa Bay player

Though Paganelli appeared to be OK, the officiating crew will be shorthanded for the rest of the game. Back judge Grantis Bell is spotting the ball, typically the umpire’s responsibility.

Panthers looking to upset NFC South rival Bucs

The Panthers are looking to get back to their winning ways, as they narrowly missed out on upsetting the Kansas City Chiefs (11-1) last Sunday following two consecutive victories. The mid-season turnaround has coincided with the improved play of quarterback Bryce Young, who has started the last four games. Young has thrown five touchdowns to just three interceptions since going back under center, looking more like the player Carolina expected when they selected him No. 1 overall last year.

“Just the progress that we’re looking for as he continues to earn these moments, then, yeah, he’ll be in there,” head coach Dave Canales said earlier this week of Young. “And that’s what I’ve been most excited about is, is that there’s weekly growth that’s happening. And so, we’re just taking it a week at a time. I know that’s been my language, but he’s really taking responsibility for it and pushing us that way.

“And so, the bottom line is, he’s giving us a chance to win.”