Who Should I Start? Jake Bates or Tyler Loop

Saturday, September 26, 4:17 AM

Baltimore Ravens kicker Tyler Loop had a disappointing outing in the team's 17-24 Week 2 loss to the New Orleans Saints, but he is likely to bounce back against the Dallas Cowboys in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this Sunday. Loop made both of his extra point attempts and one 49-yard field goal in the second half. However, his 49-yard field goal attempt in the first half was blocked, marking his first missed field goal attempt this season. The international game between the Ravens and Cowboys is projected as Week 3's highest over/under, which sets up Loop in a prime position for kicking opportunities throughout the game. NFL officials have sought to assuage early reports about poor field conditions at Maracan Stadium, which may give managers some pause about starting Loop. However, Loop has a 90% career field goal completion rate outdoors, and early weather forecasts for game time in Rio have minimal chance of precipitation and low wind. In addition, over our small two-game sample size, head coach Jesse Minter seems confident taking the points with Loop and does not appear to share his predecessor's proclivity for forgoing kicks beyond 40 yards. Loop is Rotoballer's second-ranked kicker for Week 3 and is only behind Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey on the other side of the Brazil game.