The Arizona Cardinals welcomed back Christian Kirk to the lineup in Week 8 after a three-week absence, and he picked up right where he left off as a favorite target of rookie quarterback Kyler Murray. Kirk caught eight passes for 79 yards and a touchdown, and Murray targeted him 11 times in the game. In the four weeks prior to the injury, Kirk had 24 receptions for 242 yards.

He joins Larry Fitzgerald who has struggled the past two weeks, catching three passes for 20 yards. On the season, Fitzgerald has 38 receptions for 447 yards and two touchdowns.

This week, the Cardinals host the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday Night Football. The 49ers rank No. 1 in pass defense efficiency, and have given up the third fewest fantasy points to wide receivers.

Fantasy football analysis: Christian Kirk, Larry Fitzgerald

Both receivers are likely to hold some value in PPR leagues this week, but it’s not a pretty matchup. Murray should be able to secure fantasy value on his scrambling, but as a passer he is going to face a tough day. If the Cardinals are going to keep this game close, it will likely be their defense and ground game that keep them in it. If they get blown out however, that could open the door to some garbage time performances.

At this point, Christian Kirk has emerged as the stronger starter option. Fitzgerald has a big history against the 49ers, but it’s hard to see him doing much against this particular 49ers defense.

Start/Sit Recommendations

Christian Kirk: Start
Larry Fitzgerald: Start in deep PPR leagues, sit otherwise