Who Should I Start? Jake Bates or Cam Little

Friday, September 5, 5:44 PM

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates had a breakout season as a rookie in 2024, nailing 26 of his 29 field goal attempts and converting a league-high 64 extra-point attempts. The 26-year-old will face a tough road environment in Week 1 at Lambeau Field against the Green Bay Packers. Last year, Bates made 13 field goals both at home and on the road, but he made 14 more extra points in the friendly confines of Detroit's domed Ford Field. The weather is not expected to be an issue in Green Bay on Sunday, but it's still an additional variable to consider. More importantly, the Lions averaged 30.8 points per game on the road last season, compared to 35.3 at home. The over/under for Week 1 is 47.5, so the betting markets are expecting a solid number of points to be scored between the two teams. Bates is a starting-caliber kicker in fantasy this week who should be expected to provide top-12 production.

Saturday, January 4, 12:09 PM

Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Cam Little should have at least a decent outing in the final week of the season against the Indianapolis Colts. The rookie kicker has had a solid season overall and will look to finish his first season strong. Along with many other players on the team, this game is more about auditioning for next season for Little. After a big offensive outburst for the New York Giants last week against the Colts, the Jaguars offense could be in for a similar outing in what is a similarly built offense currently. That could mean plenty of kicking opportunities for Little, who has proven he has the leg and accuracy to be a solid kicker long-term and in fantasy. Little has surprising upside compared to previous weeks in Week 18.