Three Kickers to Start in Week 9 Fantasy Football

Jake Bates is a recommended start as Detroit faces Miami. The Lions are coming off a win over Minnesota, and the Dolphins allow 25.9 points per game, the ninth-highest total in the NFL. That matchup could give Bates chances to score through both field goals and extra points. He has scored at least seven fantasy points in every game this season, with a high of 18.0.

Matt Gay also gets a favorable matchup as Las Vegas plays San Francisco. The 49ers have allowed 2.6 field-goal attempts per game this season, rising to three per game over their last three outings. They give up 10.3 fantasy points per game to kickers, the fifth-most in the league. Las Vegas reaches the red zone four times per game, fifth-most in the NFL, but converts those trips into touchdowns at a 53% rate, leaving potential field-goal chances for Gay.

Washington rookie Drew Stevens has just delivered his personal-best 16 fantasy points in a 27-10 win over Philadelphia. He made four field goals, including one from 56 yards. The Commanders face the Rams, who allow three field-goal attempts per game, tied for the league high. Over their past three games, opponents have averaged 4.3 attempts against Los Angeles. Stevens’ recent performance suggests he can make use of the opportunities.