The battle between backup quarterbacks can easily get overlooked. Especially if a team already has a franchise quarterback like Cam Newton. However, the No. 2 quarterback has a more important role than just holding a clipboard and signal-calling. You never know when something unimaginable can happen and your backup is summoned in.

In the case for the Carolina Panthers, it was assumed that Garrett Gilbert would be the one behind Newton heading into the season. But in the Panthers’ preseason victory over the Bills on Thursday night, Taylor Heinicke showed he was best suited to be No. 2.

Following Gilbert’s outing, Heinicke was called in with less than 5 minutes left in the 3rd quarter. Heinicke rushed twice for 14 yards and completed 7-of-9 passes for 121 yards, including the eventual game winning touchdown pass to Elijah Hood for 21 yards - that pass would give the Panthers a 28-17 lead with 5:28 left in the game.

Although raw at times, Heinicke showcased his ability to read defenses and bounce back from a mistake. Heinicke heaved a 32 yard pass to D.J. Moore down the left side of the field. He was also able to lead the offense 89 yards to the end zone to give the Panthers a 21-17 lead in the 4th quarter. On two different occasions, Heinicke led Carolina to scoring drives.

For Gilbert, he warmed up to his confidence and finished the night with 7-of-12 passes for 93 yards and a touchdown. Gilbert’s highlight of the night was a 26 yard touchdown pass to Mose Frazier.

Both quarterbacks lack significant NFL game experience. But Heinicke had the more impressive outing on Thursday night. Heinicke also has familiarity with Norv Turner’s offense after working under him for two years with the Minnesota Vikings, giving him a leg up on Gilbert.

Heinicke may not have an outright win yet, but he’s certainly brought attention. He should get to run with the second-team offense when the Panthers take on the Dolphins at home on Friday.