It's no coincidence that the Carolina Panthers' surge into one of the league's surprise packages this season coincided with Rico Dowdle's increased involvement. The veteran running back has been on a tear this season, displaying the purposeful aggression and explosive tendencies those in power envisaged when they signed him to a bargain-basement deal in free agency.
Dowdle led the charge to the tune of 130 rushing yards and two touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers. The former South Carolina standout was leaned on heavily, and he delivered the goods once again. Unfortunately, the punishment has begun to take its toll, and the Panthers are taking things extremely cautiously with the backfield presence this week.