Three experiments were conducted to compare corn gluten feed (CGF), and distillers dried grains plus solubes (DDGS) as protein supplements for cattle from weaning to slaughter. Experiment 1 studied the effects of DDGS and CGF on stocker performance and compositional development. Feeding DDGS increased ADG, but decreased intramuscular fat and ribeye area. Experiment 2 evaluated these by-products in a feedlot system. Performance data, rumen VFAs, BUN, glucose, insulin, ultrasound, and carcass characteristics were examined. Steers fed DDGS had increased G:F, and both by-products had decreased cost of gain compared to SBM. Experiment 3 examined meat quality characteristics of strip steaks from the above steers. Differences included redder steaks from steers fed SBM after 9 d retail display and increased discoloration in steaks from steers fed DDGS. Increased PUFA concentrations were found in steaks from steers fed DDGS.