Brian Schottenheimer responds to warning from former Cowboys RB

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle is trying to build off the best game of his career as he prepares to face his former team, and Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer is ready for the challenge.

Dowdle rushed for a career-best 206 yards and a touchdown in Carolina's 27-24 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. He was thrust into a starting role with Chuba Hubbard sidelined because of a calf injury, and Hubbard's status for Week 6 against the Cowboys is uncertain.

Dowdle, who spent the first five seasons of his career in Dallas, told reporters following Sunday's game that his former coaches and teammates had better "buckle up."

"They gotta buckle up. I know they know, for sure," Dowdle said. "I (was) there five years. They didn't keep me there five years for no reason. ... I'm looking forward to playing those guys next week. We'll handle that when we get there."

Cowboys HC Brian Schottenheimer issues a response to Rico Dowdle

During his media availability on Monday, Schottenheimer made it clear that he took note of Dowdle's comments. The Cowboys head coach brought up the "buckle up" remark without being asked about it.

"I know Rico said to buckle up. We’re gonna have our seatbelts, Rico," Schottenheimer said.