not hold a stick to (someone or something)
To not be nearly as good, desirable, or impressive as someone or something else. The sequel isn't too bad, but it doesn't hold a stick to the original. John's a nice enough guy, he just can't hold a stick our last supervisor.
not hold a stick to someone or something
and not hold a candle to someone or somethingFig. not to be nearly as good as someone or something. Sally is much faster than Bob. Bob doesn't hold a stick to Sally. This TV doesn't hold a candle to that one. That one is much better.