The Carolina Panthers will visit the San Francisco 49ers in Week 12. 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 12?
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 Dowdle in Week 12?
This season, there have been seven occurrences in which a running back carried the rock 17 times and saw multiple targets in three straight games:
- Jonathan Taylor (Weeks 1-6)
- Christian McCaffrey (Weeks 3-7)
- Saquon Barkley (Weeks 1-4)
- Kyren Williams (Weeks 5-7)
- Quinshon Judkins (Weeks 3-5)
- Dowdle (Weeks 5-7)
- Dowdle (Current)
Not a typo.
Dowdle’s name is on that list twice, as this offense has leaned into him as a bellcow at a high level since he proved himself in Chuba Hubbard’s absence. The next lead back who fails to reach his season average in PPR points against the 49ers will be the first this season, thus fueling my top 10 ranking of Dowdle.
I don’t think he’s a real threat to lead the position in scoring, but the top of Tier 2 is certainly within reason. Could he make for a contrarian DFS captain in a game where Christian McCaffrey is going to be the chalk choice (a big Dowdle game could mean a low possession game and thus a limiting of opportunities for CMC).
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 12
Dowdle is projected to score 18.9 fantasy points in PPR formats.
We project Dowdle to rush for 92 yards and 0.3 rushing touchdowns, while adding 4 receptions for 25 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 12 Weather Impact: Panthers at 49ers
The forecast for kickoff is 62 degrees Fahrenheit with 4 mph winds. These are ideal conditions for fantasy production.
