Who Should I Start? Rico Dowdle or Jaylen Wright

Wednesday, December 3, 1:59 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle was outproduced by Chuba Hubbard in last week's upset win over the Los Angeles Rams, as Hubbard finished with 17 carries for 83 yards while also catching two passes for 41 yards and a touchdown. Dowdle had 18 rushing attempts for 58 yards and added two receptions for 21 yards. It was the first time the Panthers had two RBs each record at least 75 scrimmage yards in a game since Dec. 24 of 2022. "And for Rico, you know, giving him the lion's share of some of those first and second down, those early series and all that is a great way to just get him the ball," head coach Dave Canales said. With Hubbard getting his legs back under him after missing some time with injury, the Panthers appear to be reaching a more effective, balanced approach between the two RBs, with Dowdle becoming the early-down back, and Hubbard working more on passing downs.

Wednesday, December 10, 10:20 AM

Miami Dolphins running back Jaylen Wright recorded his first career 100-yard game in the Week 14 win over the New York Jets, handling 24 carries for 107 yards and a touchdown. Wright dominated the touches in Miami's backfield after De'Von Achane (ribs) left in the second quarter due to a rib injury. Entering Week 14, the 22-year-old running back had only played 37 snaps with 18 carries in five games this season, but he leapfrogged rookie Ollie Gordon II against the Jets. With Achane going out, the second-year back played 37 snaps and set a career high with 24 carries. Head coach Mike McDaniel said Achane could have returned to the game, but he also said Monday that Achane may require additional rest. With Achane's status for Week 15 against the Pittsburgh Steelers in question, Wright could be in line for another workhorse-type role. He'd profile as a plug-and-play RB2 in Week 15 if Achane is ruled out.