Lions’ Jake Bates sends message of loyalty after game-winning field goals

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates helped the team win 26-23 against the Houston Texans on Sunday night.

Bates’ game-tying field goal and his game-winning field goal narrowly went through the uprights at NRG Stadium. If the ball had moved closer to the right or left, it likely would have bounced off the uprights and Detroit would not have been in the position it was in.

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

“I put them a little too close to the post to make it more comfortable, 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 just happy to do my job 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. He gained fame for a 64-yard field goal he scored in March.

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

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He sold Bricks in Texas a year ago before re-signing with the Panthers and eventually making his way to the NFL.

For Bates, it was about putting God first.

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

Detroit Lions place-kicker Jake Bates, #39, watches his 58-yard field goal with teammate Jack Fox, #3, during the second half of an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, November 10, 2024 in Houston . (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)

“Hopefully I can do that on the stage I’m given.”

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Bates is 14 of 14 field goals this season. He is 3-on-3 from 50 or more yards away.

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