The Carolina Panthers are counting on running back Rico Dowdle to step up in their upcoming matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. While Dowdle”s influence on the team”s overall success may be slightly exaggerated, he has played a vital role for the Panthers throughout the season. His earlier performances against teams like the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys showcased his ability to contribute significantly. However, his recent form has been less impressive, with just one game surpassing 100 rushing yards since those outings.
According to Joseph Person of The Athletic, Dowdle”s performance is critical this weekend, as he cannot afford to be absent from the game. Quarterback Bryce Young and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan are expected to rebound from disappointing performances in Week 17. While it is unlikely they could perform worse, they possess the skills to exploit the Buccaneers” secondary, which has shown weaknesses.
Nevertheless, Person emphasizes that the game plan will likely focus on a strong running game. “Dave Canales will want to sustain drives against an aging Bucs defense that gets tired when it”s on the field too long,” Person stated. This makes Dowdle, who managed only 29 yards on nine carries in their previous matchup, an essential player for the Panthers.
Despite having recorded just 331 rushing yards over the past seven games, averaging 47 yards per game, Dowdle”s performance has not met expectations. His average of 3.4 yards per carry during this period indicates a decline in effectiveness, similar to his teammate Chuba Hubbard, who has also struggled. The Panthers” once-dominant running game must return to form to ensure success against the Buccaneers.
While relying solely on Young to replicate his previous success against Tampa Bay could be risky, Canales” strategy of controlling the clock and keeping the offense on the field is sound. For this plan to work, the offensive line and Dowdle must deliver. There is some optimism with the potential return of Robert Hunt, which could enhance the run blocking and create more opportunities for both Dowdle and Hubbard to exploit the struggling Buccaneers defense.
