The Cowboys are in trouble, and the rest of the season looks grim without quarterback Dak Prescott. The team is 3-7 heading into its Week 12 matchup against the 7-4 Commanders. Cooper Rush will start under center.
Although Dallas is a 10.5-point underdog, there’s still value from individual players in fantasy football lineups. Rico Dowdle is one of those players. He’s started eight of the nine games he’s played in this season.
Dowdle has surpassed his 2023 totals, racking up 402 yards on 93 carries and three receiving touchdowns. He hasn’t scored a rushing touchdown this season, but he could have that opportunity come on Sunday against the Commanders.
Washington allows the 30th most rushing yards and 24th most rushing touchdowns to opposing teams, which bodes well for Dowdle. Furthermore, the Commanders allow the fifth least passing yards, so it’s possible that the Cowboys favor the ground game, especially with Rush starting under center.
CeeDee Lamb will still be Dallas’ No. 1 pass option, but given the weaker run defense, Dowdle may get more touches. He’s had at least 10 carries in each of the past three weeks along with 10 total receptions. He’ll provide value in fantasy lineups in need of a running back in Week 12.
Dowdle won’t compare to the likes of Derrick Henry or Saquon Barkley, of course. However, if a team is looking for a quality running back this week, Dowdle has a favorable matchup with upside in both the run and pass game.
Verdict: Start Rico Dowdle
All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
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