The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have to win in Week 17 to avoid losing control of their destiny for the 2025 season. The Bucs have been on a rollercoaster of a season, but at this point, the ride has stalled while they are upside down, essentially, as they are suffering through a rough final stretch of the year. The team is 1-6 in their last seven games, and despite that run, they have enjoyed the ability to stay atop the NFC South until last week’s loss.

Now, in Week 17, they have to defeat the Miami Dolphins as they face an impromptu division title game against the Panthers in Week 18. However, if they lose to the Dolphins and the Panthers defeat the Seahawks, nothing will matter.

So with that positive mindset in motion, let’s preview the second biggest game of the season for the Bucs as they face off against the Miami Dolphins in. Week 17.

Where to watch/listen to Bucs vs. DolphinsGame time: 1:00 p.m. EST/Noon CSTTV Channel: FOXTampa Bay Buccaneers 2025 statsOffensive yards per game: 330.7Defensive yards allowed per game: 359.7Points scored per game: 23.1Points allowed per game: 25.1Miami Dolphins 2025 statsOffensive yards per game: 323.1Defensive yards allowed per game: 354.3Points scored per game: 21.1Points allowed per game: 24.6Head coaching matchup

Bucs

Todd Bowles (60-72, in his fourth season with the team)

Dolphins

Mike McDaniel (34-32, in his fourth season with the team)Notable free agent signings

Notable Bucs free-agent signings

Haason Reddick, edge rusherRiley Dixon, punterCharlie Heck, offensive tackleKindle Vildor, cornerbackTeddy Bridgewater, quarterback

Notable Dolphins free-agent signings

James Daniels, Offensive LineZach Wilson, QuarterbackAshtyn Davis, SafetyRasul Douglas, SafetyAlexander Mattison, Running BackTampa Bay Buccaneers rookies to watchTez Johnson, Wide ReceiverEmeka Egbuka, Wide ReceiverBenjamin Morrison, CornerbackJacob Parrish, CornerbackElijah Roberts, Defensive Line