Steelers and Panthers Battle to a 10-10 Preseason Standoff in Charlotte

CAROLINA - In the final dress rehearsal for the 2025 season, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers played to a 10-10 draw. The game was held at Bank of America Stadium on Friday night. Neither team’s starters saw much action. Both coaches chose to use backups in their final game before Week 1.

By the Numbers

Panthers score first! Rookie kicker Ryan Fitzgerald put Carolina on the board with a 43-yard field goal. This came midway through the first quarter after an eight-play, 52-yard drive. On their second drive, Jack Plummer hit tight end James Mitchell for a 7-yard touchdown on 3rd & goal. This gave Carolina a 10-0 lead before halftime.

Steelers answer back Pittsburgh responded late in the second quarter. Skylar Thompson led a four-play, 80-yard drive. He capped it off with a 24-yard touchdown pass to Luke McCutcheon. Chris Boswell’s extra point knotted the score at 10-10 just before halftime.

Defensive highlights The game featured two key turnovers in the red zone. James Pierre’s diving interception in the end zone stopped a Panthers scoring chance in the second quarter. This play kept Pittsburgh’s hopes alive to tie the game. Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. grabbed a pass from Carolina’s opening drive. It was a 7-yard gain into Steelers territory, shifting momentum early in the game.

**Injury Report** Defensive tackle Derrick Harmon was injured in the first half. He hurt his knee and had to leave the game. Harmon hobbled off under his own power but did not return for the second half.

What’s next Both teams will turn their focus to final roster cuts and preparing for their Week 1 openers. Pittsburgh takes on the New York Jets. At the same time, Carolina is set to face the Los Angeles Chargers.