Who Should I Start? Rico Dowdle or Quentin Johnston

Friday, October 3, 9:25 AM

Carolina Panthers running back and former Dallas Cowboy, Rico Dowdle, is set to be the lead back in the Panthers' backfield in Week 5 against the Miami Dolphins, with Chuba Hubbard (calf) ruled out for Week 5. Hubbard is considered week-to-week, so Dowdle isn't expected to be a hot commodity for a season-long play, but he immediately rises in the Week 5 ranks and becomes a top-25 running back against the Dolphins defense, which allows the seventh most fantasy points to the running back position. Dowdle is no slouch either; last year with the Cowboys, he accumulated 1,328 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns. Rookie running back Trevor Etienne becomes the team's RB2 and should also be in line for additional carries.

Friday, October 3, 6:25 PM

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Quentin Johnston is now firmly established as the team's top wideout entering Week 5, leading in targets, receiving yards, and touchdowns. The former first-round pick was one of the few bright spots in the team's first loss to the New York Giants, catching eight of 11 targets for 98 yards and his fourth touchdown of the season. Johnston now faces a vulnerable Washington Commanders secondary in a prime home matchup. He is expected to draw coverage from CB Marshon Lattimore, but the Commanders' overall passing defense has been significantly exposed, ranking 27th in the NFL in passing yards allowed. RotoBaller upgrades Johnston to WR12 this week. Given his target volume and big-play ability, he is a borderline WR1 and a must-start in all formats.