Detroit kicker Jake Bates declared that his goal as an athlete is to “spread the love of Jesus” after kicking a game-winning 52-yard field goal that led to his team’s victory on Sunday Night Football.

Following the Lions’ 26-23 victory over the Houston Texans, Bates, 25, took part in an interview with NBC, where he reflected on his journey from believing he was ‘out of football’ to scoring the decisive kick at national television.

“I think it just shows how good the Lord is,” Bates responded when asked about his remarkable transition, expressing gratitude and praising God for being “so faithful,” adding, “I hope people Being able to see Jesus through my story.’

He reiterated that his goal is not to “make, miss or be a good kicker or a bad kicker, but to spread the love of Jesus,” adding, “So… hopefully I can do that at the stage where I am.” I am given.”

This wasn’t the first time Bates thanked God for his athletic achievements. After the Lions’ victory over the Minnesota Vikings three weeks earlier, he told reporters, “I put so much trust in the Lord that He will provide.” The former University of Arkansas kicker attributed his success to the Lord, stating that He has “provided so many things beyond what I ever expected.”

Bates emphasized the importance of understanding his identity before God, saying, “Knowing who I am and knowing who God says I am…instead of…what the world says I am,” helps him stay calm in high-pressure situations on the field. He added that reciting his favorite Bible verse, Hebrews 12:1, also helps keep his calm.

Reflecting on his journey, Bates noted, “Eighteen months ago I thought I was done with football,” saying that at that point “the dream was dead.” However, he said his return to professional football shows “how good the Lord has been in my life.”

Bates noted that while he worked briefly as a brick salesman, he “continued to receive training” in hopes of advancing. “The Lord had something else in store,” he noted, emphasizing his faith in a higher plan.