Christian McCaffrey vs Rico Dowdle: Who Should You Start?
There is a real production gap between these two running backs. Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers) averaged 21.5 PPG over 17 games in 2025, outscoring Rico Dowdle (Pittsburgh Steelers, 11.6 PPG) by 9.9 points per week. That separation would need a significant matchup swing to overcome.
The per-game difference of 9.9 points favors Christian McCaffrey, though savvy managers know that gap can shrink or widen depending on the weekly slate. Defensive matchup, recent scoring trends, and health status all shift the calculus from one running back to the other.
Christian McCaffrey is the receiving back in this matchup, turning 102 targets into 924 yards, while Rico Dowdle profiles as a more traditional rusher with 1076 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns. In PPR and half-PPR formats Christian McCaffrey carries the higher weekly floor. In standard leagues the gap tightens considerably.
Both share a Week 9 bye, which matters for roster construction. If you are stacking running backs this deep on your bench, plan your replacement running back early.
