A friend of mine texted me something that confirmed what I believed to be true, but never really had actual numbers to back it up. The placekicking in today’s NFL is worlds better than when I was growing up in the 80s. Here are the stats. In 2022, NFL kickers hit 154-224 (.688) kicks from 50+ yards.
In 2012, it was 92-151 (.609)
In 2002, it was 44-85 (.517)
In 1992, it was 36-72 (.500)
In 1982, it was 10-40 (.250)
In 1972, it was 15-60 (.250)
In 1962, it was 5-34 (.147)
I’ll watch games and guys boot 55 yarders with 10 yards to spare. It looks effortless. The FG range line on TV keeps moving a little closer to midfield every year. These guys are great.