Historically, the third preseason game is usually treated as the dress rehearsal and more starters play, which I think will give the New England Patriots a massive edge here.

New England QB Tom Brady hasn't played in the preseason yet but has been quoted looking to get in the action. "I hope so," Brady said on his weekly radio appearance on WEEI. "Again, we had practice yesterday and we have practice today and then we will see what the coach decides. I hope to be out there. We'll see what happens".

Whenever coach Bill Belichick decides that's enough, Brady's, backups Brian Hoyer and Jarrett Stidham are ready to take over and the duo has looked sharp in the first couple of games.

As for the Carolina Panthers, they'll have to be careful with starting QB Cam Newton who will make his first appearance following a season-ending shoulder injury.

The Panthers beat the Patriots 25-14 last year in the third preseason week, but I think the roles will be reversed tonight.

8* play on New England Patriots.