After missing two games with a calf injury, Chuba Hubbard returned as Carolina's starting RB in the team's 13-6 win over the Jets. Hubbard and Rico Dowdle, who accounted for 473 scrimmage yards and 2 TDs while Hubbard was sidelined, rotated drives throughout the game. They combined to rush 31 times for 110 yards.
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Hubbard drew the start and was featured in Carolina's first series on offense. He carried the ball 5 times for 9 yards in that opening drive.
In the second series, Dowdle had more success. His first carry went for 13 yards but his next three totes in that drive accounted for only 5 yards, including getting stuffed for no gain on fourth down. Dowdle also caught his lone target for 17 yards, resulting in 35 of Carolina's 42 yards.
Per PFF, the rotation stayed in place throughout the game, with Hubbard getting a slight edge in playing time, but Dowdle being the more effective option.
• Chuba Hubbard - 38 snaps (53.5%)
• Rico Dowdle - 33 snaps (46.4%)
Hubbard played 5 more snaps, but Dowdle earned 2 more touches.
• Chuba Hubbard - 14 carries, 31 yards; 2 receptions, 24 yards
• Rico Dowdle - 17 carries, 79 yards; 1 reception, 17 yards.
Dowdle produced 96 yards on 18 touches, while Hubbard's 16 touches accounted for 55 yards.
The Panthers have won three straight games and 4-of-5 overall. Expect this rotation to continue next week, but the competition will be stiffer. Carolina hosts a Buffalo Bills squad coming off their bye.
Expect Dowdle to remain ahead of Hubbard in our Week 8 RB rankings. However, Hubbard's usage in Week 7 was encouraging. He remains on the RB3/flex radar.