Who Should I Start? Riley Patterson or Jake Bates

Saturday, October 4, 11:18 AM

Miami Dolphins kicker Riley Patterson was signed to the active roster before Week 4's win over the Jets and will continue to fill in for as long as Jason Sanders (hip) remains sidelined. Patterson has connected on all four of his field goal attempts and all nine of his extra points this season. He hasn't attempted anything from beyond 50 yards, and the Dolphins' offense has struggled, which has limited his opportunities. He is in a favorable environment and matchup this week, though, so he's a workable bye week fill-in if you need him. He's the No. 18 K in RotoBaller's rankings, so he works as an option in deep leagues if you're desperate.

Saturday, October 18, 11:02 PM

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates has benefited from his team's high-powered offense through the first six weeks of the season, as Bates has both attempted and made the most extra-point tries (24) in the NFL. The 26-year-old has also knocked in seven of nine field goal attempts. The Lions will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 7 in what looks on paper like a high-scoring affair. The two teams are currently averaging a combined 59.3 points per contest. Bates will also have the advantage in Week 7 of kicking at home inside the domed Ford Field, so weather will not play a factor in the kicking game. Bates profiles as a must-start kicker in Week 7 against Tampa Bay.