Duck wanders onto field, watches a touchdown during Buccaneers-Panthers game

Duck wanders onto field, watches a touchdown during Buccaneers-Panthers game

An actual duck wanted a closer look at the Buccaneers’ game against the Panthers.

In an unexpected and amusing twist during Sunday’s game between the Buccaneers and Panthers, a duck waddled onto the field, momentarily pausing the NFC South contest at Raymond James Stadium.

The interruption took place during the third quarter and actually preceded a blocked punt that Tampa Bay returned for a touchdown, which gave the Buccaneers a 41-14 lead over the Panthers — where the score remained until the fourth.

The duck appeared, seemingly unfazed by the high-stakes game — for the Bucs at least — unfolding around it.

A duck wanted a closer look at Bucs vs. Panthers game on Dec. 29. NFL

Though the appearance was fleeting, it added a humorous and memorable moment to what was otherwise a dominant 48-14 win by the Buccaneers.

In the game, Tampa Bay was led by five touchdown pᴀsses from Baker Mayfield, who also collected 359 yards through the air.

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young reacts after a play during the first half. Getty Images

Former Oregon Duck Bucky Irving ran for 113 yards on 20 carries, while Mike Evans caught eight pᴀsses for 97 yards and two touchdowns.

The Buccaneers improved to 9-7 with a victory, and they’ll await the results of the Falcons’ game against the Commanders on Sunday night to find out their status in the playoff race.

The Buccaneers could be leading the NFC South going into Week 18. Getty Images

A Falcons win would tie the Bucs for the NFC South lead.

In the final week of the regular season, Tampa Bay will face the Saints, and the Falcons will host the Panthers.

Related Posts

Bill Belichick’s response to claims NFL teams – including Tom Brady’s Las Vegas Raiders – want to hire him

Bill Belichick’s response to claims NFL teams – including Tom Brady’s Las Vegas Raiders – want to hire him

Bill Belichick reportedly has no plans or desire to return to the NFL. It emerged on Wednesday that a number of teams had sounded out the 72-year-old…

Jalen Hurts set to practice in major Eagles playoff boost after concussion

Jalen Hurts set to practice in major Eagles playoff boost after concussion

Jalen Hurts is returning to the field for the Eagles. After suffering a concussion in the first quarter against the Commanders on Dec. 22, the Eagles star…

Why Aaron Rodgers could leave Jets for this AFC contender: NFL insider

Why Aaron Rodgers could leave Jets for this AFC contender: NFL insider

Aaron Rodgers. Pittsburgh Steelers. The 2025 season. They’ll call it “Enigma: the Encore.” It seems a long sH๏τ that the 41-year-old quarterback will be back for the…

Philadelphia Eagles given huge boost as quarterback Jalen Hurts returns to practice ahead of NFL playoffs

Philadelphia Eagles given huge boost as quarterback Jalen Hurts returns to practice ahead of NFL playoffs

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts will return to practice Wednesday for the first time since he suffered a concussion in Week 16. The major boost for the…

Jets request interview with Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo

Jets request interview with Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo

Steve Spagnuolo could get his second chance to be a head coach in New York — just not with the team you’d expect. The Jets put in…

How Jerod Mayo’s tenure in New England unraveled after the departure of Bill Belichick

How Jerod Mayo’s tenure in New England unraveled after the departure of Bill Belichick

New details have emerged surrounding Jerod Mayo’s short-lived stint as the Patriots’ head coach – and what led to his quick ouster in New England. Mayo, now…