South Atlanta News

As reporters gathered around kicker Younghoe Koo for postgame interviews, punter Bradley Pinion and long snapper Liam McCullough packed up their belongings a few lockers away. Koo answered questions in a neutral tone, while Pinion and McCullough chatted among themselves.

Despite the casual demeanor, the three specialists had just executed a game-winning 58-yard field goal that secured the Atlanta Falcons' 26-24 victory over the New Orleans Saints at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

"To be honest," McCullough said, "I wish it was a little bit longer."

McCullough's comment reflects his strong belief in Koo's abilities. Koo made four field goals against the Saints, averaging 49.25 yards per kick. His successful attempts were from 42, 44, 53, and 58 yards out. The 58-yard game-winner cleared the crossbar with room to spare.

This puts Koo at nine-for-nine on field goal attempts this season, including three from at least 50 yards out. The 58-yarder marked a new career long for Koo, who has made 163 of his 183 career attempts.

"I know I have the leg for it," Koo said. "So, just going through the process and just trying to make good contact on it."

Koo's previous long was 54 yards, which he hit seven times, including once this season in Week 3 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

"It's weird that we've had so many makes at 54 yards," McCullough said. "I'm happy for him now that the number is bumped up."

The first 54-yarder came in 2020, coinciding with McCullough and Pinion's arrival in Atlanta. Before that season, Koo's longest distance was 50 yards in 2019 with the Falcons and 41 yards for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2017.

McCullough joined the Falcons as an undrafted free agent. Pinion came from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with seven seasons of experience, including four with the San Francisco 49ers.

"We've been doing this for going on three years now together," Pinion said. "It's just knowing that we trust each other... History keeps repeating itself, so why not keep doing it?"

The trio has become well-coordinated over time. Since Pinion and McCullough joined Koo, his success rate has improved from making kicks at an 81.3% rate to hitting them at a rate of 90.5%.

"Liam and Bradley have been money all year," Koo said. "Without them, the kick doesn't go in."

Pinion added: "If everybody just does their job, it's going in."

McCullough echoed this sentiment: "As long as we get the opportunity, I know that thing is going in with Koo back there and Bradley holding."

On game day, they maintain a steady and consistent approach.

"You kind of have to be as a specialist," McCullough said. "You can't ride the highs and lows... You get one shot every time you're on the field, so you have to stay level that whole time."