As the NFL regular season winds down, the playoff picture becomes clearer with four teams already securing their playoff spots. On Sunday, several teams were also mathematically eliminated from contention. Former spring football players continue to shine in the NFL and one of four teams qualifying for the playoffs features a former UFL kicker named “The NFL Special Teams Player for November.”
Jake Bates-Detroit Lions Kicker
Nailing his third game-winning field goal, Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates continued his triumphant NFL rookie season. Kicking a walkoff 35-yarder in the closing seconds of the game, Bates gave the Lions a 34 -31 victory over division rival, the Green Bay Packers.
Bates was recognized later in the week as the NFC Special Teams Player for November after converting eight of nine field goals including four over 50 yards. The former Michigan Panthers star was perfect with 17-of-17 extra points. In addition to providing the game-winner against Green Bay, Bates kicked a 43-yard field goal and added four extra points.
With this latest win, the Lions remain tied with Kansas City for the NFL’s best record of 12-1. This was the team’s eleventh straight win. The Lions officially locked up a playoff berth, and hope to secure the NFC’s number-one seed. The Philadelphia Eagles, who clinched a playoff spot Sunday with the NFC East division, and the Minnesota Vikings remain one game behind.
Jalen Redmond-Minnesota Vikings Defensive Lineman
Former D.C. Defenders’ star lineman Jalen Redmond continued his impressive NFL performance with the Minnesota Vikings. Redmond posted four solo tackles and two pass defenses in the Vikings’ 42-21 win over the Atlanta Falcons. It was a huge victory for the Vikings, extending their six-game winning streak and improving their season record to 11-2. The Vikings are one game behind the 12-1 Detroit Lions and are well-positioned for an NFC Wild Card slot.
John Parker Romo -Minnesota Vikings Kicker
Sadly, Redmond’s former UFL teammate, kicker John Parker Romo, did not get to share in the victory celebration. Following his impressive four-week debut in relief of Minnesota Vikings placekicker Will Reichard, Romo was waived last week to make room for Reichard’s return from IR.
However, the former San Antonio Brahmas placekicker made quite an impression during his time in the NFL, connecting on 11 of 12 field goals including a 55-yarder and seven of eight extra points. Undoubtedly, another NFL opportunity will soon come his way.
Kevin Austin Jr.- New Orleans Saints Wide Receiver
Former Birmingham Stallions wide receiver Kevin Austin Jr. had a relatively quiet afternoon on Sunday. He had one reception for 5 yards in the Saints’ 14-11 victory over the New York Giants. Austin, Jr. is becoming quite the utility player for the Saints. He has one rushing attempt for nine yards and a solo tackle for the defense.
Rex Sunahara-Cleveland Browns Long Snapper
It was a long afternoon for the former San Antonio Brahmas long snapper Rex Sunahara. The Cleveland Browns lost to the division-leading Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday by a score of 27-14. With a 3-10 record, the Browns have been mathematically eliminated from the playoffs.
KaVontae Turpin-Dallas Cowboys Wide Receiver and Return Specialist
One of the most exciting, explosive players in the NFL, KaVontae Turpin has shaken up the NFL this season. The former New Jersey Generals’ outstanding return specialist and wide receiver continues to make plays for the Cowboys. On Monday night, Dallas lost a close game to the Bengals 27-20 following a blocked punt that resulted in a first down and the game-winning score.
Earlier, Turpin set the table for the Cowboys’ offense on their first possession with an impressive 20-yard return that led to a Cee Dee Lamb 11-yard touchdown pass from Cooper Rush. He also had two rushes for 15 yards and a 16-yard reception.
Brandon Aubrey-Dallas Cowboys Kicker
Continuing to demonstrate why he is one of the best kickers in the NFL, Brandon Aubrey, the former Birmingham Stallions kicker had another perfect outing kicking two out of two field goals and adding two out of two extra points in the Cowboys’ 27-20 loss to the Bengals. Aubrey’s longest kick of the night was a 47-yarder with a second kick from 35 yards.
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