Best Player Philosophy.

It’s starting to feel like Dave Canales is playing favorites instead of simply playing his best players.

After a few weeks where Rico Dowdle has clearly looked like the more explosive and effective runner, Canales seems determined to force Chuba Hubbard back into the mix even though the offense has shown better rhythm and balance when Dowdle carries the load. Meanwhile, along the offensive line, he’s taking the opposite approach.

Despite veteran Austin Corbett being healthy enough to return, Canales has opted to keep Cade Mays at center. Why? Because the line has been performing better as a unit with Mays in the middle. It’s the right decision Mays has earned the spot but it directly contradicts the logic being used in the backfield.

If performance and chemistry are what matter most on the offensive line, then the same standard should apply to running back. Right now, Dowdle’s burst, vision, and ability to consistently move the chains make him the clear choice. Hubbard, though a hard runner, simply has not shown the same ability to create yards when nothing is there.

So why the double standard? It could be veteran politics. It could be loyalty to a player who’s been around longer. Or maybe it’s just a young coach still figuring out how to balance fairness and merit. But whatever the reason, it’s costing this team momentum at a time when consistency is everything.

If Canales really believes in his “best player plays” philosophy, it’s time to apply it across the board. Stick with Mays at center. Ride the hot hand with Rico. The tape does not lie and right now Dowdle gives the Panthers their best chance to win.