Panthers HC Matt Rhule 'hopeful' Christian McCaffrey can play vs. Vikings in Week 6

Carolina Panthers star running back Christian McCaffrey seemed confident last week he'd be cleared to face the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday from the hamstring injury he suffered on Sept. 23, but that wasn't the case. 

Per Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk, Carolina head coach Matt Rhule told reporters Monday that he's "hopeful" McCaffrey will be in the backfield for this coming Sunday's showdown with the 2-3 Minnesota Vikings. Rhule added the club will have a better idea about McCaffrey's status following Wednesday's practice session. 

Rookie Chuba Hubbard has served as Carolina's RB1 in McCaffrey's absence, and Hubbard tallied 101 rushing yards with five catches for 33 yards in the Week 5 defeat to Philadelphia that dropped the Panthers to 3-2 on the season. 

However, a healthy McCaffrey is one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in the NFL and makes life easier for quarterback Sam Darnold, who tossed three interceptions in the loss to the Eagles. 

McCaffrey has accumulated 201 rushing yards and 163 receiving yards with a single touchdown this season. 

Minnesota, meanwhile, beat the winless Detroit Lions in Week 5.