Who Should I Start? Chuba Hubbard or Dillon Gabriel

Friday, October 3, 1:18 PM

Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales has labeled running back Chuba Hubbard (calf), who was officially ruled out for Week 5 against the Miami Dolphins, as "day-to-day" for next week, according to Joe Person of The Athletic. Canales said the team will take a look at Hubbard again next week, as far as his availability goes for Week 6 against the Dallas Cowboys. Hubbard was battling his calf injury in the Week 4 loss to the New England Patriots last Sunday, which is why he played a season-low 51 percent of the offensive snaps in that one. With Hubbard officially sidelined this weekend in a winnable matchup against the Dolphins, Rico Dowdle will be a plug-and-play RB2 for fantasy managers in need at the position. Additionally, rookie Trevor Etienne will see a role increase as the change-of-pace option behind Dowdle, although he won't be a recommended flex play.

Monday, October 6, 11:35 AM

Despite taking a loss, Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel did not look overmatched in his NFL debut against a tough Brian Flores defense. The Vikings' coordinator is notorious for giving even veteran QBs trouble with his unit's exotic looks and pressures. Gabriel did an excellent job of protecting the ball and, for the most part, played smart, mistake-free football. Cleveland leaned on their ground game until late in the contest, understandably, as they'll aim to win many of their games with a strong rushing attack and solid defense. While the 24-year-old still has a way to go before becoming a suggested option in single quarterback leagues, he's an intriguing pickup in superflex formats and a decent stash in dynasty. Gabriel will get another tough matchup in Week 6 when his team takes on the hosting Pittsburgh Steelers.