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Panthers at Steelers: Positions to watch

By Patrick Magoon

CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 31: Cameron Artis-Payne #34 of the Carolina Panthers runs with the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - AUGUST 31: Cameron Artis-Payne #34 of the Carolina Panthers runs with the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during their game at Bank of America Stadium on August 31, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Taylor Heinicke #6 of the Carolina Panthers
CHARLOTTE, NC – AUGUST 17: Taylor Heinicke #6 of the Carolina Panthers throws a pass against the Miami Dolphins in the second quarter during the game at Bank of America Stadium on August 17, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Backup Quarterback

Cam Newton will not be dressing up for Thursday’s game which means, undrafted free agent Taylor Heinicke will start at quarterback. Heinicke has looked solid in his first preseason campaign with the Panthers. Last week he completed five of his six passing attempts for 46 yards. He also dove head first into the end zone for a touchdown.

I am going to assume that Heinicke is the favorite to back up Newton. However, Heinicke cannot get too comfortable because his role on offense is still being discussed. He must play well to avoid giving up snaps to other quarterbacks on the roster. Garrett Gilbert, 27, is also competing for the opportunity to back up Newton. Thursday’s preseason game is Gilbert’s last chance to outplay Heinicke and move up the depth chart before the start of the regular season.

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