Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle delivered a standout performance against his former team, the Dallas Cowboys, during a thrilling Week 6 matchup at Bank of America Stadium. Dowdle’s impressive showing, which included 239 total scrimmage yards, helped the Panthers secure a 30-27 victory, improving their season record to 3-3.
Prior to the game, Dowdle had issued a warning to his former teammates, stating they needed to “buckle up.” Following the game, he did not hold back in reflecting on the outcome. “They wasn’t buckled up,” Dowdle remarked, referencing his previous comments and the challenge issued by Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark to “back it up.” Dowdle certainly did just that, rushing for 183 yards on 30 carries, while also adding four receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown.
After the game, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott acknowledged Dowdle’s triumph, admitting he “got the last laugh” on the field. Dowdle expressed his satisfaction with the win, emphasizing its significance for both himself and the franchise. “Big, big for me, but also big for the organization. Getting to .500 and protecting the home field…just got to keep building,” he stated.
Dowdle had played for the Cowboys from 2020 to 2024, but the team allowed him to reach free agency after he rushed for 1,079 yards last season. His performance in the previous week against the Miami Dolphins also showcased his skills, as he accumulated 234 total yards in a 27-24 victory. As of October 9, 2023, ESPN statistics ranked Dowdle third in the league with 472 rushing yards for the season.
Team Support and Future Challenges
The Panthers recognized the personal significance of the game for Dowdle. Quarterback Bryce Young highlighted the team’s commitment to supporting their teammate. “Rico is a competitor. That just speaks to the dawg he is. We knew it was personal. We wanted to have his back. That’s our brother… If it’s personal to him, it’s personal to us,” Young explained after the game.
Looking ahead, the Panthers will aim to improve their record further when they face the winless New York Jets (0-6) on October 19, 2023. As of Monday morning, betting odds from ESPN BET had Carolina as a 1.5-point favorite for this upcoming matchup. The Panthers will look to build on their recent success and continue Dowdle’s momentum as they strive for a winning season.