NFL power rankings: Playoff picture taking shape heading into Week 17

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CHARLOTTE, NC – DECEMBER 24: Jameis Winston #3 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers reacts after overthrowing a potential touchdown pass during their game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on December 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 28. team. 48. . L, 22-19 at Panthers. Previous:

If we bumped the Colts up for hanging in there against the Ravens, we should do the same for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for nearly upsetting the playoff-bound Carolina Panthers.

Tampa Bay moves up in our NFL power rankings after a stellar effort on the road by Bucs quarterback Jameis Winston, who went 21-of-27 for 367 yards and a touchdown. Wide receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin were exceptional, and this was the kind of offensive output we’d hoped for from Winston and the passing game seemingly all year.

Not enough, though, as Carolina sealed the deal with a game-winning rushing touchdown by quarterback Cam Newton late in the fourth quarter.

Oh, and three lost fumbles by Winston didn’t help matters either.

Still, Tampa Bay could have easily rolled over in this meaningless game. But the division rivalry, paired with a chance to spoil the Panthers’ playoff setting, made it entertaining.