Home » Sports » NFL » Detroit Lions

Jake Bates’ first missed kick this season had a subtle and explainable cause

The reason for the first missed kick of this season for Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates has surely happened before...somewhere.

By Brad Berreman · Side Lion Report

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 9:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates missed his first kick of the season because holder Jack Fox's hand interfered.
Bates hit the left upright on a 46-yard field goal attempt during a four-point victory over Minnesota.
Special teams coordinator Dave Fipp confirmed Bates struck a good ball despite Fox's hand getting in the way.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Detroit Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp revealed that Jake Bates' first missed kick of the season occurred because the ball hit holder Jack Fox's hand. The 46-yard attempt in the third quarter against the Minnesota Vikings struck the left upright, marking Bates' first miss after a perfect start to the year.

Bates had converted all 10 field goals and 22 extra points through Detroit's first six games following an adjustment to his approach distance. Review showed Bates kicked Fox's hand after the snap from Hogan Hatten, but the mishap did not prevent the Lions from securing a four-point victory.

Read the full article on Side Lion Report

Jake Bates’ first missed kick this season had a subtle and explainable cause

More Detroit Lions News

Never Miss a Sports Update