Who Should I Start? Daniel Carlson or Jake Bates

Monday, October 21, 8:13 AM

Las Vegas Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson reminded the fantasy world that he's still great in the Week 7 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Carlson booted two kicks of 27 yards, two of 38 yards, and one of 47 yards, all without missing an attempt. He didn't have any opportunities for extra points. It was an uncharacteristic game for the seventh-year pro in that he had just ten field goal attempts through his first six games. While he's a great player at his position, the opportunities for days like this could remain few and far between. The Rams defense has been one of the league's worst. Next, the Raiders will face one of the league's best defenses when they take on the Kansas City Chiefs. Carlson is unlikely to get much volume and is mostly an option in very deep leagues.

Sunday, October 20, 8:24 PM

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates delivered in the clutch during Week 7, nailing a 44-yard field goal with 15 seconds left to secure a 31-29 comeback victory over Minnesota. Bates, now a perfect 10-for-10 on the season, connected on his lone field goal attempt of the game and went 4-for-4 on extra points. The game-winning kick marked the most significant moment of Bates' young career after a costly David Montgomery fumble that was returned for a touchdown, temporarily putting the Vikings ahead. Detroit's defense forced a quick three-and-out, setting up Jared Goff and the offense to drive down the field, giving Bates a chance to seal the win. Bates has scored eight or more fantasy points in four of six games this season. The Lions will host the Tennessee Titans next Sunday, and Bates remains a solid kicking option in Week 8.