Rico Dowdle to Cowboys: "You'd better buckle up for Carolina's run game."

The Carolina Panthers are set to face the Dallas Cowboys, with a reshuffled lineup due to injuries and key player performances making headlines.

Why it matters: The outcome of this matchup could significantly impact both teams, particularly as the Panthers adjust to missing crucial players while looking to exploit the Cowboys' struggling defense.

Chuba Hubbard, the Panthers' starting running back, will miss his second consecutive game due to a calf injury. In his absence, Rico Dowdle takes center stage, having previously played for the Cowboys and recently tying Carolina's single-game rushing record with 206 yards against the Miami Dolphins.

What’s new: Dowdle's performance against the Cowboys is pivotal as he aims to capitalize on his momentum from last week's impressive outing.

• Quote: "The Cowboys had better 'buckle up' for me and Carolina's physical run game," Dowdle stated, indicating his readiness to take advantage of the opportunity against his former team.

Yes, but: The Cowboys defensive struggles remain a concern, currently ranking 32nd in the NFL, which may provide the Panthers an opening to establish their ground game.

• This vulnerability could be exacerbated by the absence of Taylor Moton, the Panthers' starting right guard, who has been ruled out due to an elbow injury. Yosh Nijman will step in to fill this critical role.

What to watch: Both Jalen Coker, a wide receiver, and Ja'Tavian Sanders, a tight end, are game-time decisions, potentially impacting the Panthers' passing attack.

• With the Cowboys needing to strategize around Dowdle's running capabilities, their defense will have to adapt to not only control the run but also anticipate possible contributions from Coker and Sanders if they return to play.

The big picture: The Panthers are looking to capitalize on the Cowboys’ weaknesses while navigating their own injury challenges.

• Brian Schottenheimer, Cowboys' coach, acknowledged Dowdle's confidence: "I know we're going to have to buckle up. We'll bring our seatbelts, Rico. We'll buckle up. Can't wait to see him though." This illustrates the respect for Dowdle’s skill set and hints at the preparations underway to contain a revitalized Panthers offense.

The bottom line: As the Cowboys prepare to defend their home turf against a depleted but determined Panthers squad, how both teams adapt to their respective challenges will likely dictate the outcome of this crucial matchup.