Rico Dowdle on opportunity to start: "Just making the most of the opportunity."

The Carolina Panthers will face the Miami Dolphins without their leading rusher, Chuba Hubbard, who is sidelined due to a calf injury.

Why it matters: Hubbard’s absence will significantly impact the Panthers' ground game as they prepare for a challenging matchup against the Dolphins.

• Hubbard has rushed for 217 yards on 53 carries this season and was a key player last year, amassing 1,195 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns.
• Dowdle's performance will be crucial in maintaining the team’s offensive rhythm; he is stepping in after limited action this season.

What’s new: The Panthers have signed former Dallas Cowboys running back Rico Dowdle to a one-year deal, who is expected to start in place of the injured Hubbard.

• Dowdle had a successful previous season, recording a career-high 1,079 rushing yards with the Cowboys.
• This season, he has posted just 83 yards on 28 carries, making this opportunity to start particularly important for him.

What to watch: As Dowdle prepares to take the lead role, how he adapts to starting duties against a formidable Dolphins defense will be key.

• The Dolphins are known for their aggressive defensive schemes, which could test Dowdle’s ability to read defenses and find gaps effectively.
• Rookie Trevor Etienne is likely to serve as the backup, adding another layer of intrigue to the running game.

Yes, but: While Dowdle is eager to step up, it’s important to acknowledge that he lacks the experience as a starter at this level.

• He expressed his commitment by stating, “Just making the most of the opportunity, that's going to be the main thing, doing what I can to help the team.”
• His success will depend not just on individual performance, but also on the offensive line's ability to create space against a potent Miami front.

The bottom line: With Hubbard sidelined, the Panthers will rely heavily on Dowdle’s performance to keep their offense balanced against the Dolphins, making this an essential moment for both the player and the team.

• The outcome will not only affect the current game but could also influence coaching decisions moving forward regarding personnel and play-calling strategies.