Carolina Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme is unlikely to start today against the Pittsburgh Steelers because of ligament damage in his right thumb. Backup quarterback Chris Weinke will get the start once again after Delhomme was listed as questionable all week without practicing. Delhomme threw a little on the sidelines Friday, but didn't do anything besides that.

Weinke threw for 423 yards last week against the New York Giants, but lost. Although his numbers looked high, he threw three interceptions and clearly was not on top of his game. If the Panthers lose this week, they will fall to 6-8, and virtually eliminate themselves from having any shot at making the postseason.

In other injury news, cornerbacks Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble were both upgraded to probable on the injury report. Having them back would be a big boost, because both of them missed last week's game due to hamstring injuries.