Panthers’ Reich explains why Hubbard is ‘lead dog’ with Sanders sidelined vs. Dolphins
The Carolina Panthers’ rushing attack will look a little different Sunday when Carolina travels to Hard Rock Stadium to face the Dolphins in Miami Gardens, Fla.
With starting running back Miles Sanders (shoulder) sidelined, third-year ball-carrier Chuba Hubbard is set to lead the backfield against the Dolphins. While Sanders has struggled through his first five games with the Charlotte-based franchise, Hubbard has shined with limited touches to start the season.
The Panthers signed Sanders to a four-year, $25.4 million deal in March to lead the running back room. But so far, Sanders has produced just 190 rushing yards (3.1 yards per carry), 81 receiving yards (5.4 yards per catch), a rushing touchdown and two lost fumbles on 76 combined touches in five games.
Meanwhile, Hubbard has picked up 154 rushing yards (4.4 yards per carry) and 57 yards (4.8 yards per catch) on 47 combined touches.
Hubbard to be ‘lead dog’ in Sanders’ absence
Panthers head coach Frank Reich said Hubbard is positioned to be Carolina’s go-to weapon in the backfield in Week 6.
“Chuba will get the bulk of the carries,” Reich said Friday. “More than likely, (he’ll) get the bulk of the carries. It’ll be hot down there, so we’ll have to rotate through. Obviously, you hope we get it going, and we’re moving the ball — you know, you run 60-70 plays in a game, so all of those guys will get some work but I think Chuba would be the lead dog.”
Sanders is known for his elusiveness, despite his lack of success to this point. Hubbard is more of a north-to-south runner in style.
With the running game struggling to pick up consistent yardage, Hubbard’s skill set could create a spark.
“Just a downhill runner,” Reich said about Hubbard. “Physical runner, good contact balance, good yards after contact. Competitive, tough.”
Along with Hubbard, the Panthers are expected to have kick returner/running back Raheem Blackshear active for the first time since Week 1. Wideout Laviska Shenault is also likely to see an uptick in carries as well.
The Panthers could use the matchup against Miami to re-evaluate their running back room.
If Hubbard shines, he could climb the depth chart on a more permanent basis. With Sanders faltering early on in his tenure, the Panthers could regroup after the Week 7 bye, and rearrange their lineup.
Reich doesn’t expect Sanders to be out long term
But as far as Sanders’ injury goes, Reich is optimistic that the running back will return to the lineup in due time, especially with a bye week on deck.
“I don’t think it’s going to be long term,” Reich said. “At the beginning of the week, sure, I think he made some good progress. I don’t want to get too optimistic. We’ll see how he responds after getting a lot of treatment over the weekend. And I know he’s working hard to get back.”
This story was originally published October 14, 2023 at 6:00 AM.
