Why Do the Carolina Panthers Have a Two Back Problem?

The Panthers' recent three-game hot streak can be attributed to Rico Dowdle's breakout. In the first four games of the season, Dowdle was mundane and the clear backup, never getting more than 10 carries a game. Chuba Hubbard, coming off a 1,000-yard rushing season, was the clear starter. In Week Five, Hubbard was sidelined with a calf injury, giving Dowdle the start. The former South Carolina Gamecock exploded in his start, taking advantage of every rep. In Week Five against the Dolphins, he rushed for 206 yards, and in Week Six against his former team, the Dallas Cowboys, he ran for 183 yards. Hubbard returned in Week Seven to his starting role. However, he did not keep the lion’s share of snaps this time, instead splitting 50/50 with Dowdle. Both backs had 20 snaps against the Jets. Dowdle emerged as the more efficient back with 79 rushing yards on 17 carries while averaging 4.6 yards per carry. In comparison to Hubbard, who ran for 31 yards on 14 attempts, averaging 2.2 yards per carry. In Week Eight, the former Oklahoma State back was the one to overtake the snap count, with 14 to Dowdle’s eight. Again, Dowdle was the superior back, rushing for 54 yards on eight carries. Hubbard, on 13 carries, ran for 34 yards. 

The truth is, Dowdle is playing better football right now. That is not hard to see. Whether or not Hubbard is still dealing with an injury or if he has hit the running back cliff has yet to be determined. Fans are calling for Dowdle to be the full-time starter, but in the NFL, it is never that easy. Hubbard's breakout season in 2024 earned him a big payday. Signing a four-year extension worth $33 million with $15 million guaranteed. In comparison, Dowdle is on a one-year prove-it deal, worth $2.75 million. Generally, the players who get paid get the start. Owners want to see their investments take shape. Hubbard has also spent more time with the Panthers, giving him a better understanding of the playbook and what is expected of him. 

Having two star running backs is always a good problem to have. Despite the heat that running backs have gotten in recent years, the position is still as crucial as ever. The majority of the NFL has adopted a committee approach, and offenses can support both running backs. The most prominent team to utilize two running backs is the Detroit Lions. Week Eight against the Bills was a wash. With starting quarterback Bryce Young out, the offense struggled to find its footing behind backup QB Andy Dalton. The running game is the key to unlocking the Panthers' offense. The Panthers are currently on the cusp of a playoff run. Both running backs will be needed to push the offense over the edge. Their next big test comes in Week Nine against the Packers. With the addition of Micah Parsons, the Packers have an elite defense. Currently, the Green Bay ranks sixth in the league in yards allowed, giving up only 289 yards per game. To make matters worse, they are ranked third against the run, allowing only 78 rushing yards per game. The Packers might be the best defense the Panthers face all year and will push the offense to its limits.