FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- The Atlanta Falcons will start quarterback Cooper Rush for the second straight week, coach Kevin Stefanski said Friday. Rush will start against the NFC South rival Carolina Panthers on Sunday with Michael Penix Jr. (ACL) not quite ready.

The Falcons left open the possibility of Penix returning earlier this week. Rush started in Week 1, a 20-13 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Tua Tagovailoa (oblique), who won the starting job out of training camp, did not practice this week and will be ruled out.

During Friday's practice, Rush threw to first-team receivers, with backup Jack Strand getting a few passes. Penix threw to scout team receivers. Rush has dealt with back spasms, but Stefanski said he has practiced fully and is "doing better." On Penix, Stefanski said, "It's a progression. Feel really confident in the plan."

Rush was 12-of-22 for 143 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions last week. His ESPN QBR was 2.6, the worst in the league in Week 1. Undrafted rookie Strand will be the backup Sunday.