For over a decade, Justin Tucker has been synonymous with perfection.
The Baltimore Ravens’ kicker has rewritten the record books and built a reputation as the most dependable player at his position. Known for his range, poise under pressure, and incredible accuracy, Tucker has been the team’s safety net in countless close games.
But in 2024, that reliability has wavered. Tucker is enduring the roughest stretch of his career, and his struggles were on full display in the first half of the Ravens’ pivotal Week 11 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Tucker missed two field goals (one from 47 yards and another from 50) leaving six critical points on the field. As a result, Baltimore finds itself trailing 9-7 at halftime in a game where every point matters.
Justin Tucker is struggling mightily against the Pittsburgh Steelers
Tucker’s misses against Pittsburgh bring his season total to 15-for-21 on field goals, marking a career-low 71.4% accuracy. For context, Tucker has never finished a season below 85% since entering the league in 2012.
This year, his field goal percentage over expected sits at 5.4% (according to Next Gen Stats) a sharp decline for someone who consistently posted double-digit positive percentages in his prime.
Justin Tucker is now 15/21 this season on FG attempts (71.4%). 📉
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) November 17, 2024
Tucker's career FG average currently stands at 89.5%, the best in NFL history. He also has never had a season where he kicked under 82.5%. 👀 pic.twitter.com/MLDGXKYof1
The kicker’s mechanics have been called into question, as all six of his misses this season have sailed wide left. Social media has lit up with reactions, ranging from disbelief to concern. Some wonder if the 34-year-old Tucker is simply going through a slump, while others fear it could be the beginning of a decline.
Despite these struggles, Tucker remains a vital piece of the Ravens’ playoff hopes. His track record as the most accurate kicker in NFL history gives the team confidence that he can rebound.
Baltimore’s narrow halftime deficit against the Steelers underscores how costly missed opportunities can be in an AFC North battle. While Tucker’s issues are concerning, the Ravens need him now more than ever. Games like this one, with razor-thin margins, have often been where Tucker has shined brightest.
If the Ravens are going to make a deep playoff run, they’ll need Tucker to rediscover his form.
He doesn’t have to be perfect, but he does have to be reliable. As the second half begins, the question looms: Can the Ravens’ legendary kicker bounce back and help his team steal a crucial win in Pittsburgh?