Head coach Dave Canales of the Carolina Panthers confirmed on Friday that the ‘exceptional’ Rico Dowdle is going to be more involved. Namely, Dowdle will assume the lead back role over the previous starter, Chuba Hubbard.

The two have alternated reps since Hubbard’s return from injury. Neither one jumped off the page, though Dowdle’s efficiency, which was his hallmark during Hubbard’s absence, remained high. Presumably, that was a large factor in making the shift. Dowdle’s reward in the starting gig is a date at Lambeau Field with the Packers. Green Bay has one of the top defensive units against the run this season.

Hubbard will remain a part of the offensive game plan; to what degree is unknown. Fantasy managers who currently roster Dowdle can continue running him out as a back-end RB1 this week. Hubbard managers might be wise to avoid the matchup in Week 9 until there is a better understanding of his utilization and against a lesser front seven.

Author: Samwise (@BuyAndSellYou)