Overview
- Dave Canales confirmed the Panthers alternated series between Chuba Hubbard and Rico Dowdle in Week 7, executing a preplanned two-back approach.
- Usage split was balanced in the 13–6 victory over the Jets: Dowdle logged 17 rushes and 96 total yards, while Hubbard had 14 carries and 55 yards from scrimmage.
- Hubbard was active after a two-game calf absence, preserving Dowdle’s role following his two-week, 473-yard franchise-record surge.
- Coaches declined to name a fixed starter and said deployment will adjust with game flow, reflecting the study of models such as the Lions’ and Seahawks’ tandems.
- Carolina improved to 4–3 behind a strong defense as Andy Dalton finished for an injured Bryce Young, with the shared backfield creating ongoing uncertainty for fantasy value.