Who Should I Start? Jake Bates or Jude McAtamney

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.

Sunday, August 25, 4:43 AM

New York Giants kicker Jude McAtamney hit both of his field goal attempts in Saturday's loss to the Giants, connecting from 43 yards and 23 yards away. He was the only Giant to put points on the board in the preseason finale. Born in Derry, Northern Ireland, McAtamney had experience playing Gaelic football before giving the American game a go, eventually playing for Rutgers in 2022 and 2023. McAtamney's path to the NFL makes for a good story but he won't be making waves in fantasy just yet. Signed as an international player, the 24-year-old rookie would not count against the 16 players on the Giants' practice squad. That does seem like the likeliest destination for McAtamney, as Graham Gano is healthy again and slated to be the Giants' starting kicker.