The Detroit Lions haven't needed much from kicker Jake Bates this season, as he had only attempted five field goals over the first four games, and he didn't attempt a single field goal over the last two games.
But the Lions called Bates' number twice in the first half of the Week 6 game against the Dallas Cowboys and the former UFL star didn't disappoint.
In the second quarter, Bates was called upon to kick a 40-yard field goal, which he made with no issue. That was the first 40-yard attempt Bates had this season and he delivered, giving the Lions an early 10-3 lead.
Then, later in the same quarter, Bates took the field again for what was his longest try of the young season from 48 yards out. Bates nailed the kick to put the Lions up 20-3.
Jake Bates makes it 20-3 with a 48-yard field goal #onepride pic.twitter.com/k8LOknt0iw
— Anthony (@anthonyjc92) October 13, 2024
Ultimately, Bates drilled all four of his field goal attempts and and 5-of-5 extra points. He's now 9-for-9 on field goals and 16-of-17 on extra points in 2024.
Bates had an up-and-down offseason and preseason for the Lions, and there were no doubt concerns about his ability to be consistent. However, Detroit decided to stick with him, showing faith in the young kicker.
So far, Bates hasn't let the Lions down and his impressive performance in Week 6 only further cemented his status as Detroit's kicker moving forward.
