Who Should I Start? Evan McPherson or Jake Bates

Saturday, December 13, 1:18 PM

Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson had a career-high six field goals in the Week 13 win over the Baltimore Ravens. However, his services weren't needed much in the recent loss to the Buffalo Bills, ending the day without an attempt. With that said, McPherson has been a top-10 fantasy kicker this season. While it's illogical to assume the 26-year-old will have another career showing, he's still a must-start in the rematch versus Baltimore in Week 15 in a game that should feature plenty of scoring from both sides.

Saturday, December 20, 12:08 AM

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates has been a bit shaky in recent weeks, as he's recorded a missed field goal in each of Detroit's last two games. He's now missed six field goal attempts across 14 games this season after missing just three attempts across 17 games as a rookie in 2024. Still, Bates leads the NFL in both extra-point makes (49) and attempts (51). He remains attached to the Lions offense, which enters Week 16 averaging a league-leading 30.6 points per contest. In Week 16, Detroit will host the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pittsburgh currently ranks just 18th in points allowed per game (23.3), so Detroit could have opportunities to get Bates on the field in point-scoring situations. Additionally, the game will be held indoors at Detroit's Ford Field, so the weather will not be a factor. Bates profiles as a solid starting kicker option for fantasy managers in Week 16.