Carolina Panthers coach John Fox doesn't always play his starters in the exhibition finale, and was no closer to unveiling his plans Wednesday.

Fox said his plan was to play his starters "about a quarter" in tonight's game at Pittsburgh, but was quick to add a loophole.

"But like all plans," he added quickly, "they can adjust."

In the past, Fox has either held starters out or played them no more than two series in the fourth exhibition. While the offense could surely use some time to polish, the night will largely belong to the backups, as quarterbacks Hunter Cantwell and Tony Pike will get the bulk of the time as they compete for the third job behind Matt Moore and Jimmy Clausen. Neither played against Tennessee, and through three games Cantwell has 17 pass attempts and Pike one.

"They (exhibitions) are all important as far as evaluations," Fox said. "Both of those guys have gotten minimal reps. This will probably be the most significant playing time they'll both get. We'll evaluate that during the game, after the game and go from there.

"I think for a lot of guys, especially the bottom half of the roster, this is a big weekend. Not that this is going to make or break them, but this is one more chance to show what they can do. Hopefully, they go out there and put their best foot forward."

Fox did mention nine players who didn't practice Wednesday and did not make the trip with the team.

The newcomer to the list was second-year guard C.J. Davis (head). Also in the non-traveling party were defensive end Tyler Brayton, cornerbacks Richard Marshall, Captain Munnerlyn and C.J. Wilson, safety Aaron Francisco, running back Tyrell Sutton wide receiver Trent Guy and right tackle Jeff Otah.