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Lions’ Jake Bates sends a message of loyalty after making some field goals
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Lions’ Jake Bates sends a message of loyalty after making some field goals

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates saw action in the team’s 26-23 victory over the Houston Texans on Sunday night.

Bates’ field goal to tie the game and his field goal to win the game narrowly missed the uprights of NRG Stadium. If the ball had come closer to the right or left, it probably would have gone off the posts and Detroit wouldn’t have been in the position it was in.

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Jake Bates runs off the field

Detroit Lions place kicker Jake Bates, No. 39, runs off the field after an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

Instead, those six points proved to be crucial to the Lions’ victory.

“I put them a little too close to the post for comfort, but luckily they went in,” Bates told NBC after the game. Jack (Fox) and Hogan (Hatten) are so good. We work so hard. I have so much confidence in the operation and the line protection that I was able to do my job with great pleasure today.”

Bates’ journey to the NFL was mentioned a few times during the broadcast. He played in the United Football League for the Michigan Panthers in 2023 and earlier this year. His claim to fame was a 64-yard field goal he scored in March.

Jake Bates runs off the field

Detroit Lions place kicker Jake Bates, No. 39, celebrates after kicking a 52-yard field goal at the end of an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

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A year ago, he sold bricks in Texas before re-signing with the Panthers and eventually heading to the NFL.

For Bates, it was about putting God first.

“I think it just shows how good the Lord is. He’s so faithful. My story is I hope people can see Jesus through my story. I mean, that’s what I think I’m here for. Not make something or miss or be a good kicker or a bad kicker, but spread the love of Jesus.

Jake Bates and Jack Fox

Detroit Lions place kicker Jake Bates, No. 39, watches his 58-yard field goal with teammate Jack Fox, No. 3, during the second half of an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)

“Hopefully I can do that on the stage that is given to me.”

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Bates is 14 of 14 in field goal percentage this season. He goes 3-for-3 from 50 yards or more.

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