Who Should I Start? Rico Dowdle or Jerome Ford

Friday, October 24, 9:00 PM

Rico Dowdle is in line for a potentially favorable matchup in Week 8 against the Bills. Over the last four weeks, Buffalo ranked 30th in fantasy points per game allowed to running backs. The Bills have a vulnerable run defense, allowing 31.1 fantasy points per game to RBs during that span. Expect Carolina to rely on their running game in Week 8 to stay in the game. Head coach Dave Canales mentioned that the workload between Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard will be split between the two running backs this week. Last week, Dowdle had a snap share of 46% compared to Hubbard, with 54%. Despite Hubbard having the advantage in snaps, Dowdle outrushed him 79 to 31 rushing yards. If the Panthers don't fall far behind, the running game can be productive because of the matchup. With six teams on a bye in fantasy football Week 8, lock Dowdle in as an RB2 start.

Saturday, October 25, 7:55 AM

Cleveland Browns running back Jerome Ford has been filling a backup role behind Quinshon Judkins in 2025. Ford logged just one carry and caught two passes for 10 yards in a 31-6 win over the Miami Dolphins in Week 7. He will now head on the road to take on the New England Patriots in Week 8. The Patriots have been tough on running backs this season, allowing just the 27th-most fantasy points per game to the position. Ford isn't involved enough in the offense to trust in fantasy outside of using him as a desperation flex/RB4 heading into Week 8. He most likely should remain on fantasy benches on Sunday.