Who Should I Start? Jake Elliott or Jake Bates

Friday, October 24, 11:01 PM

Philadelphia Eagles kicker Jake Elliott had his first missed field goal of the season against the Vikings as a 42-yard attempt sailed wide right in the fourth quarter. He did, however, make all four of his extra points. As it stands, Elliott is already an unreliable fantasy kicker with his lack of attempts, and he's even more unappealing if he starts missing. The Eagles will host the Giants in Week 8, and New York allows 25.3 points per game-10th-most in the league. But even with a below-average defense, Elliott has not shown that he's start-worthy in fantasy.

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.