Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates has had a rollercoaster journey to where he is today. Among other things, he had a college career with a total of zero field goal attempts, wooed the hearts of Detroiters via the UFL, and entered Allen Park as an underdog to the incumbent kicker. With incumbent Michael Badgley out for the season, though, Bates has presumed the spot of starter, and the Lions have yet to bring in anyone to challenge that notion.
Reports out of Allen Park were that Bates had a huge leg, but was rather inconsistent day to date. Bates quelled those concerns on Saturday against the Kansas City Chiefs with four field goals, including a 55-yard bomb that had at least a good 10 yards to spare on it. It’s looking more and more like the Lions trust Bates, and they trust him from range.
Question of the day: What is the longest field goal Jake Bates will make this season?
My answer: I’ll set the over/under at 61.5 yards, and I’ll take the under. I think he’ll get a few chances to push 60, but I think unless absolutely necessary, Dan Campbell is going to remain aggressive on fourth down and not push the envelope to flirt with NFL records.
I think Bates will be in good position to get lots of long range kicks in, though. If the preseason has been any indication, the Lions miss the presence of Josh Reynolds on the outside and that could lead to many more drives stalling closer to the middle of the field this year.
It’ll be interesting to see if we see as much dependence on field goals in the Lions’ third preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Beyond that, though, he’ll have to continue his upwards trajectory and solidify his status as the starting kicker in order to continue getting opportunities into the regular season.
What do you think will be Jake Bates’ longest field goal this season? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
