CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle had a message for his former team after rushing for a career-best 206 yards last Sunday against the Miami Dolphins.

“Better buckle up,” Dowdle warned the Dallas Cowboys, who have the 32nd-ranked defense.

Dowdle didn't back down from that message this week, adding: "It’s going to be a very physical game. I take pride in that. Buckle your chinstraps up. I will be coming.″

The Cowboys insist they'll be ready.

“He gotta back it up,” Cowboys defensive tackle Kenny Clark said. “I’m not much into talking. He ain’t played nobody like us and we ain’t played them.”

Dowdle should be plenty motivated.

He spent five seasons with the Cowboys (2-2-1) and eclipsed 1,000 yards rushing last year, but team owner/general manager Jerry J

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