Who Should I Start? Dustin Hopkins or Jake Bates

Friday, December 20, 7:09 PM

Cleveland Browns kicker Dustin Hopkins was given the week off to clear his head in a Week 15 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs as the team tabbed Riley Patterson as their kicker for the game. Hopkins will now return to the field after a one-week absence to take on the Cincinnati Bengals on the road in Week 16. The Bengals have been decent against opposing kickers this season, allowing the 14th-fewest fantasy points per game to the position. Hopkins has struggled with his accuracy this season, making just 16 of his 25 field goals. In addition, the Browns offense could find it hard to move the ball as they will start Dorian Thompson-Robinson in place of Jameis Winston against Cincy. Those two factors combine to make Hopkins tough to trust in fantasy heading into Week 16.

Saturday, December 21, 9:25 AM

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates can be started with confidence in Week 16 at the Chicago Bears. He is coming off a game against Buffalo in which he missed a 52-yard field goal but made all six of his extra points. The 52-yarder was his only attempt of the game so he will look to rebound a bit at Chicago this week. Tied to the Lions' high-powered offense, Bates is a trustworthy option for fantasy managers at the position. Look for more opportunities for field goals in this game and expect Bates to deliver this week.