The Facts: There won't be a decision made as to who the Carolina Panthers' QB1 will be this season until Week 2 of the preseason has passed. HC Matt Rhule on Saturday tabbed his team's Aug. 19 preseason tilt against the host New England Patriots as a proving ground in the QB battle between Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold. "I'm not putting a timetable on the quarterback position until after we get back from the Patriots week," Rhule said, via ESPN’s David Newton. "The Patriots week is a true litmus test for us. That will really show us where guys are."

Diehards Line: Darnold and Mayfield have alternated reps since the latter joined the squad via trade prior to training camp in July. Neither has emerged as a clear frontrunner, though, and Rhule has maintained all along he won't rush the decision. By the time the Patriots' preseason game is on the docket, the Panthers will have played the Commanders in their preseason opener on Aug. 13 and also have taken part in joint practices with the Pats before the Friday night game. ... We'll be watching for more.