We’re finally answering one of the most crucial fantasy dilemmas in football. Chuba Hubbard is back in the lineup and trying to reclaim his job from backup Rico Dowdle, who looked unbelievable in his starts. The two shared touches in the Panthers’ blowout loss to the Bills on Sunday, and it only deepened the question. So, we have to ask the question again: Is Dowdle the running back to play in Week 9 against the Packers? Or will Hubbard reclaim the RB1 job?
Analysis
It hasn’t been the rosiest return to the lineup for Hubbard. In two games back from a calf injury, he has taken 26 carries for 65 yards (2.5 yards per carry) with one rushing score. He’s added two catches for 24 yards. In those same two games, Dowdle has 25 carries for 133 yards (5.3 yards per carry) while adding a catch for 17 yards. It felt like Sunday was the turning point; Hubbard couldn’t create much of anything, while Dowdle ripped off a few chunk gains. That has left an impression on head coach Dave Canales.
The writing on the wall is turning into reality. Don’t just take Canales’ word for it. Here it is, right from the horse’s mouth.
Hubbard’s quote sounds like a guy preparing for a backup role. And if that’s the case, the value here is clear.
The verdict
Later in the season, a return to the top job may be in the cards for Hubbard. A calf injury is a tricky thing that carries significant risk while sapping his abilities. It’s possible that some of the motivation for scaling back Hubbard’s usage is for his own good as much as the good of the team.
But the result is the same. Dowdle can only be held back so long as he continues to outperform Hubbard. He’s the guy you want in your lineups against the Packers.
