Dowdle vs. Cowboys: Rematch in Charlotte After Yardage Explosion

Rico Dowdle, running back for the Carolina Panthers, proved his worth with a stellar performance, accumulating 206 rushing yards against the Miami Dolphins. This outstanding performance comes just before the match against the Dallas Cowboys, a team with which Dowdle previously played. Dowdle, who in his early days in the NFL felt that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones didn’t remember his name, is now preparing to face his former team at Bank of America Stadium. After his impressive performance, Dowdle made it clear that the Cowboys must be ready for the match.

“They know I’m an aggressive runner,” Dowdle said. “I’m looking forward to getting to the second level against them. They just have to prepare.”

Rico Dowdle

The 27-year-old running back was looking to stay in Dallas after a 1,079-yard season in 2024, but financial negotiations did not work out. Dowdle signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract with the Panthers, with incentives that could raise the value to about $6 million. Until Sunday, Dowdle had had a limited role this season, with 83 yards on 28 carries. However, with Chuba Hubbard out due to injury, Dowdle seized the opportunity.

His performance placed him second in team history in yards per game, tied with Jonathan Stewart (2009). If it weren’t for the cramps, Dowdle believes he would have surpassed DeAngelo Williams’ record of 210 yards in 2012.

The Panthers’ running back faced one of the league’s worst run defenses, as the Dolphins allowed 158 yards per game. Dowdle contributed 100 yards after contact, a career high. His 53-yard run in the third quarter was the team’s longest play this season. In addition, a 43-yard run in the final quarter set up his one-yard touchdown that gave Carolina its first lead, 20-17. Hubbard’s injury and Dowdle’s emergence highlighted the Panthers’ ability to overcome a 17-point deficit, something they have only achieved on four occasions out of 117 attempts. Coach Dave Canales praised Dowdle’s attitude and aggressiveness on the field.

“I saw a great performance from Rico today.”

Dave Canales

The Cowboys, for their part, will have Javonte Williams, who had an outstanding performance with 135 rushing yards and a touchdown against the New York Jets. Dowdle’s role will depend on Hubbard’s health, whose injury is being evaluated daily. If Hubbard is recovered, the effort could be shared.