Jake Bates’ exceptional performance in November leads to NFC Special Teams Player of the Month recognition.

The Detroit Lions’ rise to the top of the NFC standings has been driven by standout performances from all over the roster, and kicker Jake Bates has certainly played a crucial role. With a month of near-perfect kicking behind him, Bates has earned a well-deserved accolade: NFC Special Teams Player of the Month for November. This honor not only underscores his impressive consistency but also adds to the Lions’ growing collection of individual awards this season.

An Impressive November

Jake Bates’ November was nothing short of outstanding. He tallied 41 points across four games, remaining perfect on all 17 extra-point attempts. Bates also converted eight out of nine field goal attempts, with four of those coming from 50 yards or more. His consistency and clutch performances were pivotal in securing key victories for the Lions, especially in high-pressure moments.

According to NFL.com’s Grant Gordon, Bates’ performance was integral to the Lions’ continued success. “The Lions are the top team in the NFC, and the play of their kicker has been a pivotal reason as to why,” Gordon noted. Bates’ accuracy and calm under pressure were key to maintaining Detroit’s momentum throughout the month.

Clutch Performances and Key Highlights

One of the standout moments in Bates’ November was his performance against the Houston Texans in Week 10. With the game on the line, Bates calmly nailed a 58-yard field goal to tie the game, followed by a 52-yarder to secure the Lions’ thrilling comeback win. His clutch kicks earned him NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors for the second time this season, a recognition he first earned in Week 7.

Bates’ excellence was not just about making kicks; it was about the big moments when his team needed him most. “The job of the kicker is to make it,” said Lions special teams coach Dave Fipp. Despite a rare miss on Thanksgiving Day, Fipp praised Bates’ overall performance, acknowledging that perfection is impossible but the ability to deliver under pressure is what sets great kickers apart.

Breaking Records and Making History

With this recognition, Bates joins an exclusive list of Lions kickers who have won the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month award. He becomes the first Lions kicker since Matt Prater in 2017 to earn the honor, and the third overall in franchise history, joining Prater and Jason Hanson. Bates’ achievement is a testament to his consistency and ability to perform when it matters.

For the Lions, this award marks a historic moment. According to Lions PR, Bates’ honor is part of a first-ever trio of players in a single season to win Offensive, Defensive, and Special Teams Player of the Month awards. Aidan Hutchinson took home the NFC Defensive Player of the Month in September, while quarterback Jared Goff earned NFC Offensive Player of the Month for October.

A Big Year for Bates and the Lions

Jake Bates’ recognition as NFC Special Teams Player of the Month is just the latest feather in his cap this season. His strong performances have helped the Lions maintain their position at the top of the NFC, and with the playoffs looming, Bates will be a key figure as the team looks to make a deep run.

The Lions have a balanced and dynamic team, and Bates’ stellar kicking is a crucial piece of their success. As the season progresses, Lions fans can expect Bates to continue delivering in big moments, cementing his place as one of the NFL’s top kickers.

Conclusion

With an award-winning month behind him, Jake Bates is proving to be more than just a reliable kicker—he’s a game-changer for the Detroit Lions. His performance in November is a testament to his skill, focus, and clutch abilities. As the Lions push toward the postseason, Bates will continue to be a vital part of their championship aspirations.