Sources: Bucs turning to rival in search for new head coach
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}FILE - In this July 31, 2014, file photo, Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott applauds the defense during an NFL football practice at their training camp in Spartanburg, S.C. The Browns are interviewing Carolina defensive coordinator Sean McDermott and Jacksonville offensive assistant Doug Marrone for their head coaching job. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton, File)
Well that didn't take long.
Barely 24 hours after firing Lovie Smith, and on the same day that general manager Jason Licht explained the reasoning behind the surprising decision, NFL on FOX Insider Peter Schrager reported late Thursday that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are meeting with Panthers defensive coordinator this weekend to discuss their new head-coaching vacancy.
While quarterback Cam Newton seems like a near-lock to win NFL MVP honors, perhaps the biggest reason the Panthers finished an NFL-best 15-1 this regular season was the play of its defense.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Carolina finished sixth in total defense, 11th against the pass and fourth against the run. The Panthers also surrendered the sixth-fewest points in 2015 and finished first or tied for first in the NFL in interceptions (24), fumble recoveries (15) and turnover margin (+20).
With the No. 1 overall seed in the NFC, the Panthers have a bye this weekend.