Superman will fly low

Curtis Calhoun Evergreen columnist

Start – Golden Tate, WR, Seahawks

The Seahawks offense struggled mightily against the Buccaneers in Seattle last week, but Tate expects to have a bounce-back week against a Falcons passing defense that ranks 20th in the league and has been vulnerable to the big play all year. With Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice out for the season with a torn ACL, Tate will continue to get most of the looks from Russell Wilson. I expect the Seahawks to have a big game through the air and to attack a Falcons secondary that is beat-up and vulnerable to the big play, which Tate has excelled in all year, especially on the road.

Sit – Cam Newton, QB, Panthers

The self-proclaimed “Superman” has flown high this season, improving in both mechanics and maturity as a quarterback in Carolina. However, facing a 49ers defense that earlier this week activated All-Pro pass rusher Aldon Smith after off-the-field issues, Superman might want to give up his cape this week in San Francisco. Expect the 49ers to use a ton of blitz packages against the athletic Newton, which will contain and force him to make big time throws that he won’t make in a tough environment.

Start – Zac Stacy, RB, Rams

Stacy had quite the coming-out party against the Titans at home last week, seeing goal-line carries as well targets from his quarterback out of the backfield. In a Rams offense that is depleted after the loss of starting quarterback Sam Bradford for the season a few weeks back, the workload for Stacy is sure to increase as the season progresses and Clemens continues to struggle. The Colts have problems stopping the run as well, and rank 28th overall for stopping the run. Look for Stacy to put up big points against Indianapolis in Week 10.

Sit – Ryan Matthews, RB, Chargers

The Chargers continue to utilize the talents of running back Danny Woodhead, especially in goal-line situations, which are ultimately decreasing the workload for Matthews. Matthews continues to be non-existent in the passing game as well. In a Chargers offense that is pass-heavy, look for Matthews to struggle against a Broncos defense that is giving up an average of just 81.5 rushing yards per game this season.

Start – Jake Locker, QB, Titans

Locker gave a poor performance in St. Louis last week, throwing for just 189 yards and no touchdowns, along with two interceptions. However, returning home should be a big boost for Locker as he has had great success there this season against difficult opponents. Facing a Jaguars secondary in Week 10 that has been dominated especially on the road this season, Locker and the Titans should put up big numbers against the inexperienced and inept Jaguars. Look for Locker to be active outside the pocket as well, which will give fantasy owners more points and more opportunities for big plays down the field.