Who Should I Start? Jake Bates or Tyler Loop

Saturday, November 1, 12:09 AM

Through seven games so far in 2025, Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates has made an uninspiring eight out of 11 field goal attempts. However, Bates leads the NFL in both extra-point attempts (27) and makes (27). The Lions are currently averaging over 30 points scored per game, which has given Bates a relatively safe fantasy floor. In Week 9, Detroit will host the Minnesota Vikings. Playing inside the domed Ford Field, Bates will not have to deal with any potential weather concerns. In 12 career games at Ford Field, Bates has scored an average of 8.67 points per contest. He profiles as a must-start fantasy kicker in Week 9 against Minnesota.

Thursday, October 30, 12:08 PM

Baltimore Ravens kicker Tyler Loop bounced back in a big way in the Week 8 win over the Chicago Bears. He made three field goals from 42, 28, and 32 yards while making all three of his extra point attempts as well. Now, Lamar Jackson returns in Week 9 against a Miami Dolphins defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing kickers and is tied for seventh-most points per game to opposing teams. That puts Loop firmly into the K1 conversation, and he's currently projected in the RotoBaller rankings to finish as the K5 in Week 9.