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Panthers Upset Packers on Rookie’s 49-Yard Winner to Reach 5-4

A run-first identity built on Rico Dowdle and a resurgent defense has put a postseason bid back in play for Carolina.

Overview

  • Carolina edged Green Bay 16-13 at Lambeau Field on Ryan Fitzgerald’s 49-yard field goal, securing a fourth straight victory.
  • Head coach Dave Canales scrapped a split backfield to feature Rico Dowdle, who logged 25 carries for 130 yards and two touchdowns against the Packers.
  • Since taking over in Week 5, Dowdle ranks third in total rushing yards at 735 and has powered an offense averaging 206 rushing yards in his starts.
  • Carolina’s defense kept Jordan Love and Josh Jacobs in check after halftime and has allowed 17.5 points per game during Bryce Young’s four-game win streak.
  • The win lifted the Panthers to 5-4 and modest climbs in national power rankings, placing them back in the NFC playoff mix with tougher opponents still ahead.