It's getting harder and harder to make a case on behalf of Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris. Tampa Bay lost their ninth consecutive game on Saturday, a 48-16 laugher against the Carolina Panthers. The outcome guarantees Tampa Bay last place in the NFC South.
Rookie sensation Cam Newton continued his impressive, record-breaking rookie season. In the first quarter, the Panthers' quarterback topped Peyton Manning's single-season record for passing yards by a rookie. Newton finished the game 12-for-17 with 171 yards and three touchdowns. The highlight was a franchise-record 91-yard touchdown to Brandon LaFell in the second quarter. Newton also added to his record for rookie rushing touchdowns, picking up his 14th of the season.
Tampa Bay allowed an opponent to score more than 40 points for the second time in their last three games. They managed just 59 rushing yards for the day. Quarterback Josh Freeman passed for 274 yards, but threw just one touchdown.
The Buccaneers drop to 4-10. They wrap up a disappointing season next week against the Atlanta Falcons.
Carolina moves to 6-9 for the season, and concludes its year next week at New Orleans.
For more on the Panthers, check out Cat Scratch Reader. For all things Buccaneers, check out Bucs Nation.