The aim was to wear down the defenders and match their physical strength.

“You have to let them know,” Dowdell said.

It contrasted with the style of Rahmir Johnson, the lightning to Dowdell’s thunder. Johnson is quick and cunning, elusive in space.

Dowdell finished the night with 17 carries for 74 yards and two touchdowns. Johnson had the ball nine times and finished with 33 yards. He also had eight receptions for 49 yards and an improbable juggling move to turn a potential interception into a touchdown late in the first half.

Equally notable was the lack of action from Gabe Ervin Jr. and Emmett Johnson, who combined for three carries and nine yards.

All four running backs saw significant action the week before against UTEP, but coach Matt Rhule has said the goal is to pare down the key contributors from two to two players. For at least one week, that was Dowdell and Rahmir Johnson.

“I feel like every running back in the room — if anybody stepped on the field, there would never be a step back,” Dowdell said.