Bucs’ Jake Camarda Receives Praise For Heading Punt In Final Moments Against Panthers

Bucs’ Jake Camarda Receives Praise For Heading Punt In Final Moments Against Panthers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers got monster performances from Tom Brady and Mike Evans in their win over the Carolina Panthers, but it could have been their kicker who made the play of the day on Sunday.

With 42 seconds remaining in the game, the Buccaneers were forced to punt the ball. Jake Camarda lined up to punt the ball, but missed the snap. He managed to run to his left and kicked the ball off with his right foot.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Ryan Succop #3 and Jake Camarda #5 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers celebrate after a field goal during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium on January 1, 2023 in Tampa, Florida.
(Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)

Camarda’s extra effort helped Tampa Bay avoid a blocked punt or worse. A penalty on the play also gave the Buccaneers a second chance to drive the Panthers away. The second punt attempt was driven 41 yards and Carolina was forced to start at her own 8-yard line.

The fans were quick to applaud Camarda’s clearance in the delicate situation.

TOM BRADY, MIKE EVANS PUT MONSTER PERFORMANCES TOGETHER TO LEAD BUCS TO NFC SOUTH WIN

Camarda was a fourth-round pick out of Georgia in 2022. He had just come off a national championship when he was named the starting kicker. He has appeared in all 16 Tampa Bay games this season.

January 1, 2023;  Tampa, Florida, United States;  Tampa Bay Buccaneers punter Jake Camarda (5) looks down after missing the field goal against the Carolina Panthers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium.

January 1, 2023; Tampa, Florida, United States; Tampa Bay Buccaneers punter Jake Camarda (5) looks down after missing the field goal against the Carolina Panthers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium.
(Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)

Brady had three touchdown passes and a rushing touchdown to lead the Buccaneers to a 30-24 victory over the Panthers and clinch the NFC South title. He finished the game 34 of 45 with 432 passing yards and added a rushing touchdown to his tally.

It was the first time he has passed 400 yards since Week 16 against the New York Jets last season.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

December 25, 2022;  Glendale, Arizona, United States;  Tampa Bay Buccaneers punter Jake Camarda (5) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.

December 25, 2022; Glendale, Arizona, United States; Tampa Bay Buccaneers punter Jake Camarda (5) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium.
(Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)

Evans and Chris Godwin each had 100 or more receiving yards. Evans finished with 10 receptions for 207 yards. Godwin had nine receptions for 120 yards.

By Loris Jones

You May Also Like