What happened: David Montgomery handled 20 carries and three catches for Houston in Week 1, finishing with 79 total yards and three touchdowns. Bucky Irving drew seven targets on 22 routes, while Chuba Hubbard led Carolina's committee with 87 total yards and two scores.

Why it matters: The early usage matters because several uncertain backfields showed clearer Week 1 leaders than draft rooms expected. Montgomery's receiving score undercut the idea that Woody Marks would control passing-down work, and Hubbard's first-half snap edge gave Carolina a cleaner split than a true committee.

What to watch: Houston's next four games are Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Dallas and Tennessee. Carolina gets Atlanta and Cleveland next, a quick test of whether Hubbard keeps the lead role.