Who Should I Start? Wil Lutz or Jake Bates

Friday, October 18, 12:55 AM

The Denver Broncos had their way with the hosting New Orleans Saints in Week 7 on Thursday night in a 33-10 win, which benefitted kicker Wil Lutz and any fantasy managers that streamed him in a plus matchup. Lutz made all four of his field-goal attempts (long of 52 yards) and all three of his extra-point attempts in what amounted to his best game of the 2024 season. It was a nice bounce-back performance after he made just one field goal and one extra point in the Week 6 loss to the division-rival Los Angeles Chargers. The 30-year-old kicker has been money for the Broncos in seven games this year, missing just one of his 18 field-goal attempts while going 12-for-12 on extra points. In an offense that is improving slowly under rookie quarterback Bo Nix, Lutz will once again be on the streaming radar in a plus Week 8 tilt against the Carolina Panthers.

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.