Rico Dowdle Set to Play in Key Matchup Against Buccaneers
Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle is expected to play in a pivotal Week 18 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after being removed from the injury report. Dowdle had missed practice earlier in the week due to a toe injury, but he will be available as the Panthers aim to clinch the NFC South title and secure the No. 4 seed in the playoffs.
This season, Dowdle has emerged as a significant contributor in the Panthers’ backfield. He has shared duties with Chuba Hubbard, and many consider him the lead back for most of the year. Over the course of 16 games, Dowdle has recorded 229 carries for 1,066 yards, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. He has also scored six rushing touchdowns and caught 37 passes for 277 yards and one touchdown.
Despite the return of Hubbard to the lineup, Dowdle has consistently played over 50 percent of Carolina’s offensive snaps in the last three games. His performance against Tampa Bay will be crucial, especially considering the stakes involved in this matchup.
Performance Analysis and Betting Insights
As the Panthers prepare for their critical encounter, Dowdle’s recent performance raises some questions. Although he started the season strong, he has struggled over the past several games, averaging only 47.3 rushing yards per game and 3.4 yards per carry in his last seven outings. This slump included a challenging game against the Buccaneers in Week 16, where Dowdle managed just 29 yards on nine carries.
Betting lines for Dowdle’s performance indicate he may be worth reconsidering. According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the line for Dowdle’s rushing yards is set at UNDER 55.5 yards with odds of -109. He has exceeded this mark in only two of his last seven games, failing to reach 60 rushing yards in each of those contests.
The Buccaneers have demonstrated a solid defensive performance against the run, ranking ninth in the NFL in expected points added per rush. While they allow an average of 4.4 yards per carry, these statistics suggest that Dowdle may face a tough road ahead.
Given the circumstances, it may be prudent for bettors to consider the UNDER for Dowdle’s rushing yards in this regular season finale. As always, odds are subject to change, and bettors should stay informed.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, assistance is available through the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER. As the Panthers gear up for this significant match, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Dowdle performs when it matters most.
