CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -With Vinny Testaverde feeling his age, undrafted rookie Matt Moore could become the fourth quarterback to start this season for the Carolina Panthers on Sunday against Seattle.
The 44-year-old Testaverde missed his third consecutive practice on Friday for what was officially called a “team decision.” While coach John Fox has said Testaverde doesn’t have a specific injury and listed him as probable on the injury report, Fox did acknowledge Testaverde has been experiencing general soreness.
Testaverde’s body appeared to let him down in Sunday’s 37-6 loss to Jacksonville, where had little zip on his throws and lacked accuracy. Testaverde was replaced by Moore in the fourth quarter after completing 13 of 28 passes for 84 yards. Testaverde also had an interception returned for a touchdown.
Moore completed only 3 of 10 passes for 21 yards in his place, but may be the only option on Sunday. Fox has shied away from playing ineffective David Carr since he was booed at home earlier this season.
“It’s a game-time decision on what the order will be,” Fox said.
The Panthers’ quarterback situation has been in flux since Jake Delhomme was lost to a season-ending right elbow injury in Week 3. Carr replaced him, only to be sidelined by two concussions and a back injury. That forced the Panthers to sign Testaverde, who was later slowed by a right Achilles’ tendon injury and a sore back.
Carr came back, then struggled. Fox then turned again to Testaverde, who became the oldest NFL starting quarterback to win a game.
With all the injuries, Moore has played in parts of six games. Signed in September after being one of Dallas’ final cuts, Moore has completed 14 of 32 passes for 166 yards and three interceptions. His passer rating is 21.1.
Carr, Testaverde and Moore have combined for eight touchdown passes, the same number Delhomme had in less than three games.
Moore, who played at Oregon State, said on Thursday he’s been getting more comfortable with the offense. With Testaverde unable to take a snap in three straight practices, he may be forced to play against the Seahawks, who rank second in the league with 41 sacks and 20 interceptions.
It would be an opportunity,” Moore said. “This week, practice has gone good. If it happens I’ve just got to go out there and make things happen. Move the ball and just be efficient.”
Receiver Keary Colbert (knee) missed his third straight practice Friday and is listed as doubtful against the Seahawks. Guard Jeremy Bridges (abscessed tooth) and receiver Dwayne Jarrett (knee) are probable after missing the Jacksonville loss.
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