Ride the hot hand

Start – Case Keenum, QB, Texans

After Sunday’s explosion against the Indianapolis Colts when Keenum racked up 350 yards and three touchdowns, it only gets easier for Houston’s new fan-favorite. Keenum faces the Arizona Cardinals Sunday, and although cornerback Patrick Peterson is one of the best in the business, the defensive unit as a whole allows over 254 passing yards per game, ranking 25th in the league. If Keenum can accrue 28 fantasy points (according to ESPN standard scoring) against the Colts, imagine what he will do against the Cardinals.

Sit – Matt Ryan, QB, Falcons

Although Ryan’s nickname is “Matty Ice” (due to his reputation for leading the Falcons to comeback wins), the ice in his veins has surely melted by now. After star receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White went down with injuries, Ryan has struggled tremendously. A pitiful running attack has not helped the situation and has put pressure on Ryan to make something happen. Sunday’s matchup against the ball-hawking secondary of the Seattle Seahawks will only make matters worse.

Start – Colin Kaepernick, QB, 49ers

San Francisco has flown under the radar as of late despite winning five straight games. Kaepernick is a big reason behind that. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh has turned Kaepernick loose when it comes to running the ball, which has paid dividends for the offense. When San Francisco rolls into town against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, they will also bring receiver Mario Manningham, who is set to be activated before the game.

Sit – Dallas Cowboys Defense/Special Teams

Ever since former defensive coordinator Rob Ryan left big D for New Orleans, the Cowboys defense has lost its intensity. As a result, Dallas ranks 31st in pass defense with over 305 yards per game to go along with 114 rushing yards allowed per game, good for 16th in the league. Speaking of the Saints, Drew Brees and his offensive juggernaut will face Dallas at home Sunday night where the Saints have won ten in a row in primetime games.

Start – Rashad Jennings, RB, Raiders

Once again, Oakland’s starting running back Darren McFadden is injured, meaning his backup, Rashad Jennings, will move to the top of the depth chart. After “Run DMC” went down Sunday, Jennings replaced him and ran for 102 yards and one touchdown on just 15 carries. Jennings also had seven receptions out of the backfield for the Raiders, meaning he will contribute in the passing game as well.