The Pittsburgh Steelers are set to take on the Carolina Panthers in a Week 3 preseason matchup. It should be an interesting game, as this is the final chance for Mike Tomlin and the coaching staff to evaluate the roster. The Steelers participate in a tough AFC North division, so they'll need the best team moving forward if they hope to make another playoff appearance.

Defense is where this team excels, so it's more important to keep an eye on the offense during Friday night's game. The Steelers offensive line is a tad on the poor side, but they could prove everyone wrong with a strong performance against the Panthers. It'd be a nice stepping stone for the Steelers to build confidence heading into the 2021 season.

The front office addressed the running back position, but the team still needs a backup to give Najee Harris some rest in the backfield. We could see someone separate themselves for that backup role in the Steelers' final preseason game. Additionally, Pittsburgh's passing game might be even better this year, as a rookie tight end has been gaining steady momentum. Lastly, the pass rush should be in full effect on Friday night, where a young prospect might lockdown a starting role. With that said, here are four bold predictions for the final preseason game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers.

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4. Steelers offensive line plays well

The offensive line is an issue as they struggled last year. However, they face a nice a challenge against the Panthers who are a young team trying to prove themselves. If Pittsburgh's offensive line can withstand the Panthers front seven, it will build confidence for this team heading into the regular season. Look for the Steelers to open up the run game in this one, as they were the worst rushing team in the league last year.

3. Anthony McFarland Jr. makes a case to be the backup

Everyone knows the backfield belongs to Najee Harris at this point, as he's the bonafied starter moving forward. However, it's not realistic for him to serve as the only running back and he'll need a viable backup to stay fresh. There seems to be open competition for that role, but Anthony McFarland Jr. could make a strong case win the job. He's been the most efficient running back outside of Harris and might be the perfect backup in Pittsburgh. Look for Anthony McFarland Jr. to have a big game on Friday night.

2. Pat Freiermuth shines again

Eric Ebron is the starting tight end for now, but Pat Freiermuth is challenging him for that role. Freiermuth had an impressive touchdown catch in the Steelers' last preseason game and has been a consistent target throughout training camp. This is a great opportunity for Pat Freiermuth to earn a more prominent role as a rookie, as he has the potential to be a star tight end in this league.

1. Alex Highsmith continues to impress

Alex Highsmith has been a bright spot this offseason but after the front office signed Melvin Ingram, there's reason to believe Highsmith loses the starting job. Even so, Highsmith has a ton of potential and could win the starting role with another strong performance on Friday night. Keep an eye on Alex Highsmith, as he could be in for a massive game, giving the Steelers an even more dangerous pass rush.