Andy Goode's display as a replacement in last Saturday's EDF Energy Cup win over Sale Sharks sees him start at outside-half, with Harry Ellis selected at No.9.
Seru Rabeni returns after a calf injury to claim a spot on the right wing, with Tom Varndell taking a place on the replacements bench. Dan Hipkiss and Daryl Gibson continue their partnership in the centres, while Alesana Tuilagi's impressive form means he retains the left-wing berth.
In the forwards, an all-international front row sees George Chuter pack down between England colleague Julian White and Argentinean cap Marcos Ayerza, while Italian prop Martin Castrogiovanni makes it into the squad for the first time since injuring his knee during the RBS 6 Nations.
Howard opts for an all-England international combination in the second row, with Ben Kay partnering Louis Deacon.
Shane Jennings and Lewis Moody are selected on the flanks, with Martin Corry skippering the side from No.8.
Corry, however, faces a late fitness test after picking up an elbow injury last weekend. If the British Lion is unable to play, Brett Deacon will move up from the bench to take Corry's place. Henry Tuilagi would then come into the squad as one of the seven replacements.
"Martin is an important part of our plans and we'll give him time over the next 48 hours to prove he's ready to play his part," said Howard. "It's a massive game and everyone at the club is looking forward to it. Stade Francais are a hugely talented side and we know we'll have to be at our best to make it through to the next stage."
Castrogiovanni could make his first appearance for Tigers since the home win over Newcastle Falcons on January 27.
"Having Castro back is obviously a bonus. He's been one of our most impressive players this season so it's good to have him involved," added Howard. "He's settled in well since his move from Italy in the summer and he's definitely become a crowd favourite. He's been desperate to make it back in time for the quarter-final so we're pleased that he'll get the chance to make an impact."
With Goode, Ian Humphreys and Paul Burke all available, Howard had a tough call to make as far as the fly-half spot was concerned.
"We've got three fit fly-halves so the No.10 shirt was always going to be very competitive. Ian's been in good form but Goodey's display when he came on against Sale showed a real degree of control and he deserves his chance.
"There is a great feeling about the match as we'll be playing against some of the best players in Europe. I am sure they are looking at our side and feeling the same. It's very nicely matched and it's worth the admission money!"
Tigers vs Stade Francais (Sunday, April 1, kick-off 3.30pm)
15. Geordan Murphy
14. Seru Rabeni
13. Dan Hipkiss
12. Daryl Gibson
11. Alesana Tuilagi
10. Andy Goode
9. Harry Ellis
1. Marcos Ayerza
2. George Chuter
3. Julian White
4. Louis Deacon
5. Ben Kay
6. Lewis Moody
7. Shane Jennings
8. Martin Corry (c)
Replacements
16. Gavin Hickie
17. Martin Castrogiovanni
18. Leo Cullen
19. Brett Deacon
20. Frank Murphy
21. Ian Humphreys
22. Tom Varndell
NB Martin Corry faces a late fitness test. If he is unable to play, Brett Deacon will move to No.8 and Henry Tuilagi will come on to the replacements bench.
