The Carolina Panthers (4-3) will host the Buffalo Bills (4-2) in Week 8. 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 8?
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 8?
Chuba Hubbard returned and was the starter in name, but this was a split backfield that saw Rico Dowdle hold a pretty significant edge despite being stuffed on an early fourth down attempt.
Week 7 Rushing Data
- Dowdle: 88.2% gain rate, 17.6% 10+ yard gain rate, 3.2 YPC after contact
- Hubbard: 71.4% gain rate, 7.1% 10+ yard gain rate, 2.1 YPC after contact
This is a committee situation as long as the coaching staff wants it to be, but the on-field production speaks for itself.
The argument could be made that Hubbard is still the right play. Despite an inferior game, he out-snapped Dowdle, and if the team calls his number again, a healthier version of him could have success against the fourth-worst EPA run defense against running backs this season.
But I’m siding with a dangerous thought: rational coaching. Dowdle shined in two pristine matchups with Hubbard on the shelf and looked better last week. I’ve got him assuming the Hubbard role from last week in that he gets the first crack, and that might be all it takes.
I rank for mean outcomes, and that has Dowdle half a dozen spots ahead of Hubbard as an RB2 to his teammate’s flex status.
I’m not actively looking to start Panthers in this potential blowout spot, but it’s hard to be picky in a week like this, so if forced, give me Dowdle over Hubbard in Week 8.
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 8
Dowdle is projected to score 14.7 fantasy points in PPR formats.
We project Dowdle to rush for 72 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 8 Weather Impact: Bills at Panthers
The forecast for kickoff is 71 degrees Fahrenheit with 8 mph winds. These are ideal conditions for fantasy production.
