The Carolina Panthers (2-3) will host the Dallas Cowboys (2-2) in Week 6. Here’s the latest fantasy football news and advice to help you with your lineups this week and moving forward, specifically regarding RB Rico Dowdle.
Is Rico Dowdle Playing in Week 6?
Dowdle is not on the injury report and barring a surprise, he is expected to play.
We’ll continue to monitor the Panthers’ injury report leading up to kickoff for any changes. You can also visit and bookmark our Fantasy News Tracker for the latest updates.
Should You Start or Sit Rico Dowdle in Week 6?
Peak behind the curtain:
“Wow, 97 scrimmage yards in the first half for Rico Dowdle. Save for if he falls off after the half but still has strong counting numbers.”
That was a note I jotted down in real time during the Panthers game last week.
As it turns out, it was noteworthy, but for a different reason: he was better in the second half of the win over the Dolphins!
When all was said and done, the Chuba Hubbard replacement racked up 234 yards of offense and was the fantasy story of the week.
Now what? We saw him clear 1,000 rushing yards with Dallas last season, but that was more of a volume thing than anything impressive talent-wise (3.7% production below expectation). He certainly looked the part of a game-changer last week (+62.8%), though the opponent should be noted.
I’m not sure the performance was overly predictive for Dowdle, but with Hubbard (calf) entering this week with a ‘day-to-day’ plan and another ultra-enticing matchup ahead (sixth most PPR RB points allowed), we might get a chance to use him for another week with top-20 expectations.
Carolina’s lead back has gotten his hands on the ball at least 19 times in three of five games, and because I think this game will be competitive, such a projection is very possible for Dowdle should Hubbard miss another game.
If that’s not the case, we might be looking at a 60/40 type of split in a below-average offense where you’re not comfortable playing either.
Are you looking for start/sit advice for other players in your lineup? Read our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em Cheat Sheet.
Dowdle’s Fantasy Points Projection in Week 6
Dowdle is projected to score 15.3 fantasy points in PPR formats.
We project Dowdle to rush for 75 yards and 0.2 rushing touchdowns, while adding 3 receptions for 20 receiving yards and 0.3 receiving touchdowns.
Check out the free PFSN Fantasy Start-Sit Optimizer for the latest projections and advice for your lineups this week.
Week 6 Weather Impact: Cowboys at Panthers
The forecast for kickoff is 64 degrees Fahrenheit with 11 mph winds. These are ideal conditions for fantasy production.
