Who Should I Start? Rico Dowdle or Emanuel Wilson

Saturday, October 18, 4:25 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle has been one of the best stories in the NFL over the past two weeks, totaling an unbelievable 473 yards and two touchdowns as the lead back in place of Chuba Hubbard (calf). Hubbard will make his return on Sunday against the Jets, which muddies the outlook for the backfield this week. Hubbard earned a contract extension for his strong production last season and operated as the clear lead back before getting injured this season, but the superb play of Dowdle certainly changes some things. Head coach Dave Canales was noncommittal on how touches would be distributed, but expect it to be close to an even split, perhaps with a lean to Dowdle. Given his recent strong play, Dowdle profiles as a viable RB2 or flex start in Week 7 against the Jets.

Sunday, October 19, 8:33 AM

Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson hasn't seen much of the field this season, but could be more involved in Week 7. Lead back Josh Jacobs (illness, calf) is banged up heading into this contest. Right now, Jacobs is considered a game-time decision for Sunday's game. If he sits, Wilson would offer streaming value as the lead back this weekend. Even as the backup, Wilson figures to have increased duties with Jacobs banged up. He's not worth starting right now, but could be worth a stash given Jacobs' status right now. Wilson could give running back needy fantasy managers an option if Jacobs is unable to go.