In “Start or Sit,” we make a call on players who merit strong starting consideration — and players who might be best on the bench. 

Here’s our Week 17 rundown:

START

Lions QB Matthew Stafford (vs. Chicago) —Yes, Stafford has had a disappointing season, but he is nonetheless in range of 5,000 passing yards, and 305 yards in the season finale vs. Chicago will make him the first NFL passer to ever reach the 5,000 mark in back-to-back campaigns. There are multiple ways to make a case to start Stafford. If you believe the Bears will get out to an early lead and the Lions will need to abandon any semblance of a running game, Stafford is an attractive play. Also, if you believe the game will be close, Stafford is a reasonable play, for the Lions are pass-happy even in the best of times. 

Jaguars QB Chad Henne (at Tennessee) — I can't say he's a slam-dunk start in smaller leagues, but I would give him a long look in two-QB formats and big one-QB leagues. I like Henne's matchup; the Titans' pass defense is not a strength. Also, Henne should relish the chance to get one more chance to show the Jaguars (and other teams, too) what he can do. In Week 17, I am always inclined to side with players who have every reason to be motivated to play hard, and Henne looks like a textbook case.