Panthers reach .500 behind a dominant run game with Dowdle

The Carolina Panthers have won consecutive games behind a suddenly dominant running game and an improving run defense, moving to .500 for the first time since November 2021. Carolina rallied to beat the Miami Dolphins in Week 5 and followed with a 30-27 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 6, powered by 455 rushing yards across those two games and a 183-yard performance from running back Rico Dowdle against Dallas. Starting back Chuba Hubbard was ruled out Friday with a calf injury, setting up another start for Dowdle.

Dowdle, who signed a one-year deal with Carolina this spring after rushing for over 1,000 yards last season with Dallas, has averaged 5.8 yards per carry this year and led the Panthers in carries while Hubbard has been sidelined. The Panthers now lead the league in rushing yards and rank among the top five in yards per carry and rushing success rate, statistics that reflect both the backfield production and improved play up front. The offensive line has performed well despite missing multiple Week 1 starters, and coach Dave Canales has leaned on the run to control the clock and sustain drives.

Carolina’s defensive front has matched the offense’s recent success...