In a rare turn of events, Atlanta Falcons kicker Younghoe Koo, typically one of the NFL’s most accurate kickers, took responsibility for the team’s loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his reliability, Koo had made 96% of his field goal attempts this season and boasted a career-best field goal percentage of 90%, the highest in league history. However, in the recent game against the Buccaneers, Koo missed two crucial field goals, a 50-yard attempt off the right post and a wide-left 52-yarder just before halftime. The Falcons eventually lost the game 29-25, with the missed kicks making a significant impact.
Koo acknowledged the importance of those missed opportunities, stating, “Those are crucial points, right? Those are crucial turnovers. I feel like I cost one today, so I’m just going to go back to work. That’s all I can do.” Despite making an extra point in the fourth quarter to trim the deficit, Koo emphasized the need to reset and prepare for the upcoming games. Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder pointed out the team’s responsibility to put Koo in better field positions, but Koo insisted on taking accountability for his kicks.
Head coach Arthur Smith acknowledged Koo’s missed field goals while discussing offensive missed opportunities but stressed that the loss was not solely Koo’s fault. Despite the challenging day for Koo, teammates expressed unwavering support for the captain, highlighting his history of making game-winning kicks and character. Koo, a steadying presence for the Falcons, faced a difficult day at a crucial time, with the team now tied for the division lead in the NFC South.
Teammates, including receiver Drake London, expressed confidence in Koo’s abilities, considering the recent game as a fluke. They affirmed their support for Koo, anticipating that he would return hungrier and more focused in the upcoming games, aiming to secure victories and propel the Falcons back into playoff contention.
This unexpected turn of events for Koo, who is typically a reliable force for the Falcons, adds a layer of drama and accountability to the team’s dynamics.
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