Rico Dowdle has resumed his role as the lead running back for the Carolina Panthers following a pivotal Week 15 matchup against the New Orleans Saints. Despite the team’s loss, Dowdle’s performance solidified his position as the primary ball-carrier, while Chuba Hubbard saw his opportunities decrease significantly after a standout game the week before. As the Panthers prepare for a crucial Week 16 divisional clash against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the question arises: Which running back can fantasy football players rely on?
In the recent game, Dowdle logged 16 carries and a target, participating in 59% of the offensive snaps. This increased usage contrasts with Hubbard’s diminished role, which plummeted from a 59% snap share to just 42%. Dowdle not only maintained a steady workload but also demonstrated his effectiveness, crucially handling early-down carries and serving as the primary engine for Carolina’s rushing attack. His performance bodes well for his fantasy outlook, even if he is not producing the elite RB1 numbers he achieved earlier in the season.
Conversely, Hubbard’s performance fell short of expectations, finishing with only eight carries and one target. His reduced snap share indicates a shift in the coaching staff’s strategy, utilizing him primarily in passing situations rather than as a co-lead in the rushing game. This reversion has made Hubbard less reliable, particularly as he no longer possesses a consistent touch floor necessary for fantasy starters.
Heading into the game against Tampa Bay, the matchup presents both challenges and opportunities for the Panthers’ running backs. Tampa Bay has allowed the 11th-most fantasy points to running backs this season, suggesting a potential for success on the ground. However, the Buccaneers have been especially vulnerable to pass-catching running backs, having allowed a significant percentage of their receiving yards to this position. This trend might favor Hubbard, who is used more frequently in passing situations, although his recent usage does not strongly support that notion.
Carolina’s commitment to a ground game strategy, especially given their reliance on controlling the clock, further emphasizes Dowdle’s value as a solid RB2 option. While Hubbard could theoretically benefit from an increased game script or an unexpected shift during the game, his current standing appears more suited to a desperate flex play, leaving Dowdle as the recommended starter for fantasy managers looking for reliable production in their playoff matchups.
Ultimately, with varying levels of trust in both players, it is clear that Dowdle’s consistent workload positions him as a dependable choice, while Hubbard’s role remains uncertain, making him a riskier fantasy consideration this week.