While Mike Tomlin has to be at least somewhat satisfied at the Steelers' effort and performance in August, not so much for Dave Canales, who has watched his Panthers get outscored 50-13 while losing their first two preseason games. Among third-string QBs this summer, the Steelers' Skylar Thompson has been as impressive as any, completing 30 of 43 passes with 3 TDs. Meanwhile, not a good vibe yet in Charlotte, where Canales now says starters won't go at all tonight. Just-signed ex-Virginia and UFL QB Bryce Perkins is likely to get some snaps for the Panthers along with Jack Plummer, who has failed to excite in the preseason. Play Steelers.

Carolina has been outscored 50-13 in its two preseason games. Bryce Young and Andy Dalton both will sit out Thursday's preseason finale against visiting Pittsburgh. That leaves Jack Plummer and newly-signed Bryce Perkins, the reigning UFL MVP, at quarterback. Perkins participated in his first Panthers' practice Monday. Mike Tomlin ruled out only Aaron Rodgers, DK Metcalf, Cam Heyward and TJ Watt. He mentioned he might get his starting secondary, which includes Jalen Ramsey, Darius Slay and Joey Porter Jr., some playing Thursday so they can work on communication. Even if Tomlin sits backup QB Mason Rudolph, Pittsburgh should have an edge with the experienced Skylar Thompson followed by Logan Woodside.