Jake Bates becomes viral meme after awkward stretching moment during Lions game

Detroit Lions kicker Jake Bates became the subject of a viral meme after ESPN cameras captured him in an awkward position while stretching on the sidelines during a game against the San Francisco 49ers. The incident occurred as the Lions were leading 31-28 in the fourth quarter of their 40-34 victory. Bates was dealing with a minor injury, and the moment drew attention from announcers and social media users alike. As a result, Bates is likely to avoid the internet for a while, as various memes and comments about the moment have flooded social media platforms.