The Carolina Panthers are off to a 3-0 star, led by quarterback Cam Newton carrying the team on his shoulders. But if the Panthers truly want to remain a contender, their offense will need to see improvements from the running game. Facing a Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense that is allowing the sixth-most fantasy points to running backs this season, Carolina needs Jonathan Stewart on the field.
After missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday, Stewart made it back for the all critical Friday practice. Stewart has been battling a leg injury for a little while and left last Sunday's game after a hit to his leg, so it is good to see him get in a practice on Friday.
It's certainly looking like Stewart will receive the "questionable" designation for Sunday's game, but his presence is needed. While he has struggled in a major way this season, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry, a matchup against the Buccaneers does offer an opportunity to break out.
If he is unable to go, Carolina will likely split carries between Cameron Artis-Payne and Fozzy Whittaker. Artis-Payne would like serve as more of the short-yardage and between the tackles back, while Whitaker worked on third downs and his skills as a receiving back were utilized. It's just a toss up in DFS about which running back you'd want to play in a good matchup.