Who Should I Start? Rico Dowdle or Keaton Mitchell

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.

Sunday, December 7, 4:08 PM

Baltimore Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell (knee) exited during the third quarter of Sunday's Week 14 contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was initially listed as questionable before being downgraded to out. He finished the game with 76 rushing yards on six carries, headlined by a big 55-yard run. The 23-year-old adds a burst of speed to the offense, so his absence will be felt. With Justice Hill (neck) and Mitchell both sidelined, Rasheen Ali will step into the backup running back role behind Derrick Henry.