Who Should I Start? Evan McPherson or Jake Bates

Sunday, September 15, 11:04 PM

Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson had a productive game for fantasy managers in the Week 2 meeting against the Chiefs. After making one kick in the Week 1 loss to the Patriots, the 25-year-old had four on Sunday, including a 53-yarder in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, a missed extra-point attempt would prove costly, with the Chiefs winning the contest by one, thanks to a field goal from Harrison Butker as time expired. At any rate, McPherson is one of the best kickers in the National Football League, meaning he deserves starting consideration in all fantasy lineups when the Bengals meet the Commanders in the Week 3 Monday Night Football matchup.

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.